The strange quark is one of the six types of quarks, which are fundamental particles that combine to form protons and neutrons. Quarks are never found alone; they always exist in groups called hadrons. The strange quark has a charge of -1/3 and is heavier than the up and down quarks, which are the most common types found in ordinary matter. Strange quarks are important in the study of particle physics and are a key component of particles known as kaons and hyperons. These particles help scientists understand the strong force that holds atomic nuclei together and the behavior of matter under extreme conditions, such as in neutron stars.