HiggsTools: BSM scalar phenomenology with new versions of HiggsBounds and HiggsSignals

Abstract

The codes HiggsBounds and HiggsSignals compare model predictions of BSM models with extended scalar sectors to searches for additional scalars and to measurements of the detected Higgs boson at 125GeV. We present a unification and extension of the functionalities provided by both codes into the new HiggsTools framework. The codes have been re-written in modern C++ with native Python and Mathematica interfaces for easy interactive use. We discuss the user interface for providing model predictions, now part of the new sub-library HiggsPredictions, which also provides access to many cross sections and branching ratios for reference models such as the SM. HiggsBounds now implements experimental limits purely through json data files, can better handle clusters of BSM particles of similar masses (even for complicated search topologies), and features an improved handling of mass uncertainties. Moreover, it now contains an extended list of Higgs-boson pair production searches and doubly-charged Higgs boson searches. In HiggsSignals, the treatment of different types of measurements has been unified, both in the χ2 computation and in the data file format used to implement experimental results. Program summaryProgram title:HiggsToolsCPC Library link to program files:https://doi.org/10.17632/b25smy28cj.1Developer's repository link:https://gitlab.com/higgsbounds/higgstoolsLicensing provisions: GPLv3Programming language:C++, Python, MathematicaJournal reference of previous version: P. Bechtle, O. Brein, S. Heinemeyer, G. Weiglein, K.E. Williams, Comput. Phys. Commun. 182 (2011), 2605-2631Does the new version supersede the previous version?: YesReasons for the new version: This version extends the functionality of the previous versions and is re-written in modern C++.Summary of revisions: List of included Higgs-boson searches and Higgs-boson rate measurements has been expanded.Nature of problem: Determine whether a parameter point of a given model is excluded or allowed by LEP and LHC Higgs boson search results, and whether this model point is in agreement with the LHC Higgs-boson rate measurements.Solution method: Exclusion by Higgs boson searches: The most sensitive channel from LEP and LHC searches is determined and subsequently applied to test this parameter point for each Higgs boson of the model under consideration. The test requires as input, model predictions for the Higgs boson masses, branching ratios and ratios of production cross sections with respect to reference values. Agreement with LHC Higgs-boson rate measurements: A χ2 value is calculated based on the available LHC rate measurements. This calculation requires as input model predictions for the Higgs boson(s) at ∼125 GeV.Additional comments including restrictions and unusual features: Assumes that the narrow width approximation is applicable in the model under consideration and that the model does not predict a significant change to the signature of the background processes or the kinematical distributions of the signal cross sections.