Hyperons are a type of subatomic particle that belong to the family of baryons, which are particles made up of three quarks. Unlike protons and neutrons, hyperons contain at least one strange quark, giving them unique properties and making them heavier than ordinary baryons. They are typically found in high-energy environments, such as in cosmic rays or the cores of neutron stars.
There are several types of hyperons, including the Lambda baryon, Sigma baryons, and Xi baryons. These particles play a crucial role in understanding the strong nuclear force and the behavior of matter under extreme conditions. Studying hyperons helps physicists explore the fundamental interactions that govern the universe.