Xi baryons are a type of subatomic particle known as baryons, which are made up of three quarks. Specifically, Xi baryons contain one up quark and two strange quarks, giving them unique properties. They are part of the larger family of particles called hadrons, which are influenced by the strong nuclear force. These particles are heavier than protons and neutrons and are produced in high-energy environments, such as particle accelerators or cosmic ray interactions. Xi baryons can exist in different states, including the Xi^0 and Xi^-, each with distinct masses and lifetimes before they decay into other particles.