Editor's note: The "why particle physics matters" contest ended at 5pm Central on Sept. 3. Thanks to everyone who voted! Symmetry will announce the winner on Tuesday, Sept. 10. As you await the results, we encourage you to check out all the explanations on symmetry's YouTube channel.

Particle physicists dedicate their lives to understanding the fundamental nature of energy, matter, space and time. Why do they do it? Why is it important for the rest of us?

Symmetry asked them to explain, and a couple of dozen bravely stepped forward to do so on camera. Vote for your favorite of our top five videos by clicking the button immediately under that video. Then meet the rest of the crowd on symmetry’s YouTube channel.