A groundbreaking study from the University of São Paulo has proposed a novel theoretical framework that could illuminate aspects of dark matter, one of the universe’s greatest mysteries. The model introduces an innovative inelastic dark matter (DM) scenario mediated by a novel vector particle.
According to the researchers, traditional candidates for dark matter, such as massive particles beyond the standard model of particle physics, have been ruled out due to lack of experimental confirmation. Instead, they focus on lighter, more elusive candidates that interact weakly with ordinary matter.
The new model posits an inelastic DM scenario involving two particles: a stable, lighter species (χ₁) and a slightly heavier but unstable counterpart (χ₂). The mediator’s interactions involve transitions between these two states, providing a uniquely testable mechanism.
This setup diverges from elastic models where dark matter particles scatter without internal state changes. The model also evades stringent constraints from cosmological observations and current detection experiments due to the transient nature of χ₂ and the suppression of relevant interaction channels.
The researchers’ framework offers a compelling alternative to traditional inelastic DM models, revitalizing this paradigm and opening new avenues for phenomenological exploration and detector design. Computational tools are publicly available, empowering the scientific community to reproduce and extend the analyses while pinpointing promising regions for experimental pursuits.
This breakthrough demonstrates the powerful synergy of innovative theory, precise cosmological data, and high-precision experimental efforts in unveiling the universe’s secret components. As research ventures further into this uncharted territory, the vector-mediated inelastic dark matter model could represent a pivotal milestone in the cosmic quest to illuminate the dark universe.
Source: https://bioengineer.org/new-research-unveils-promising-window-for-dark-matter-exploration