The Z boson is a fundamental particle in the Standard Model of particle physics. It is a neutral particle that mediates the weak nuclear force, which is responsible for processes like radioactive decay. The Z boson was discovered in 1973 at the CERN laboratory, confirming key predictions of the electroweak theory. Z bosons are produced in high-energy collisions, such as those occurring in particle accelerators. They have a very short lifespan and decay into other particles almost immediately after being created. Understanding the Z boson helps scientists explore the fundamental forces that govern the universe.