Editing Cabibbo–Kobayashi–Maskawa matrix (section)

{{Short description|Unitary matrix containing information on the weak interaction}}
{{Flavour quantum numbers}}

In the [[Standard Model]] of [[particle physics]], the '''Cabibbo–Kobayashi–Maskawa matrix''', '''CKM matrix''', '''quark mixing matrix''', or '''KM matrix''' is a [[unitary matrix]] that contains information on the strength of the [[Flavour (particle physics)|flavour]]-changing [[weak interaction]]. Technically, it specifies the mismatch of [[quantum state]]s of [[quark]]s when they propagate freely and when they take part in the [[weak interaction]]s. It is important in the understanding of [[CP violation]]. This matrix was introduced for three generations of quarks by [[Makoto Kobayashi (physicist)|Makoto Kobayashi]] and [[Toshihide Maskawa]], adding one [[generation (particle physics)|generation]] to the matrix previously introduced by [[Nicola Cabibbo]]. This matrix is also an extension of the [[GIM mechanism]], which only includes two of the three current families of quarks.