Fundamental Coupling Constants Research Articles

Gravitational-wave detectors as particle-physics laboratories: Constraining scalar interactions with a coherent inspiral model of boson-star binaries

Gravitational-wave (GW) detections of binary neutron star coalescences play a crucial role to constrain the microscopic interaction of matter at ultrahigh density. Similarly, if boson stars exist in the universe their coalescence can be used to constrain the fundamental coupling constants of a scalar field theory. We develop the first coherent waveform model for the inspiral of boson stars with quartic interactions. The waveform includes coherently spin-induced quadrupolar and tidal-deformability contributions in terms of the masses and spins of the binary and of a single coupling constant of the theory. We show that future instruments such as the Einstein Telescope and the Laser Interferometer Space Antenna can provide strong complementary bounds on bosonic self-interactions, while the constraining power of current detectors is marginal.

Probing dark universe with exceptional points

It is demonstrated that detection of putative particles such as paraphotons and axions constituting the dark sector of the universe can be reduced to detection of extremely weak links or couplings between cavities and modes. This method allows utilisation of extremely sensitive frequency metrology methods that are not limited by traditional requirements on ultra low temperatures, strong magnetic fields and sophisticated superconducting technology. We show that exceptional points in the eigenmode structure of coupled modes may be used to boost the sensitivity of dark matter mediated weak links. We find observables that are proportional to fractional powers of fundamental coupling constants. Particularly, in the case of axion detection, it is demonstrated that resonance frequency scaling with $\sim \sqrt{g_{a\gamma\gamma}\theta}$ and $\sim \sqrt[3]{g_{a\gamma\gamma}\theta}$ dependencies can be realised in a ternary photonic cavity system, which is beneficial as these coupling constants are extremely small.

Physical Mathematics and The Fine-Structure Constant

Research into ancient physical structures, some having been known as the seven wonders of the ancient world, inspired new developments in the early history of mathematics. At the other end of this spectrum of inquiry the research is concerned with the minimum of observations from physical data as exemplified by Eddington's Principle. Current discussions of the interplay between physics and mathematics revive some of this early history of mathematics and offer insight into the fine-structure constant. Arthur Eddington's work leads to a new calculation of the inverse fine-structure constant giving the same approximate value as ancient geometry combined with the golden ratio structure of the hydrogen atom. The hyperbolic function suggested by Alfred Landé leads to another result, involving the Laplace limit of Kepler's equation, with the same approximate value and related to the aforementioned results. The accuracy of these results are consistent with the standard reference. Relationships between the four fundamental coupling constants are also found.

Fundamental Harmonic Power Laws Relating the Frequency Equivalents of the Electron, Bohr Radius, Rydberg Constant with the Fine Structure, Planck’s Constant, 2 and π

We evaluate three of the quantum constants of hydrogen, the electron, e-, the Bohr radius, a0, and the Rydberg constants, , as natural unit frequency equivalents, v. This is equivalent to Planck’s constant, h, the speed of light, c, and the electron charge, e, all scaled to 1 similar in concept to the Hartree atomic, and Planck units. These frequency ratios are analyzed as fundamental coupling constants. We recognize that the ratio of the product of 8π2, the ve- times the vR divided by va0 squared equals 1. This is a power law defining Planck’s constant in a dimensionless domain as 1. We also find that all of the possible dimensionless and dimensioned ratios correspond to other constants or classic relationships, and are systematically inter-related by multiple power laws to the fine structure constant, α; and the geometric factors 2, and π. One is related to an angular momentum scaled by Planck’s constant, and another is the kinetic energy law. There are harmonic sinusoidal relationships based on 2π circle geometry. In the dimensionless domain, α is equivalent to the free space constant of permeability, and its reciprocal to permittivity. If any two quanta are known, all of the others can be derived within power laws. This demonstrates that 8π2 represents the logical geometric conversion factor that links the Euclid geometric factors/three dimensional space, and the quantum domain. We conclude that the relative scale and organization of many of the fundamental constants even beyond hydrogen are related to a unified power law system defined by only three physical quanta of ve-, vR, and va0.

Parity Violation in Deep Inelastic Scattering with the SoLID Spectrometer at JLab

We discuss precision measurements of PVDIS with the upgraded JLab 12 GeV beam by using a Solenoidal Łarge Iintensity Device (SoLID). The unique feature of SoLID, combining high luminosity and large acceptance, makes it possible to reach the high precision needed to have a high impact by using PVDIS to probe physics beyond the Standard Model. A measurement of PVDIS in deuterium will determine a fundamental coupling constant that is inaccessible with other means. PVDIS measurements can also access a number of topics in QCD physics, including searching for charge symmetry violation in the parton distribution functions, determining the [Formula: see text] ratio in the proton without nuclear effects, and a clean extraction of higher-twist effects due to quark-quark correlations. SoLID allows a full exploitation of the physics potential of the JLab 12 GeV upgrade. In addition to PVDIS, it has a set of approved highly-rated experiments to study nucleon transverse spin and transverse structure by using polarized semi-inclusive DIS and to study non-perturbative gluon dynamics with J/[Formula: see text] production near threshold. A brief description of the SoLID spectrometer is also given.

On the cosmic convergence mechanism of the massless dilaton

The converging mechanism discussed in Damour and Nordtvedt (1993) [10] for scalar-tensor theories has been applied to dilaton-like theories in several subsequent papers. In the present communication, we show that an unfortunate assumption in those studies led to a scalar-field equation unsuitable for the study of the dilaton field. The corrected scalar-field equation turns to change the numerical outcome of those studies in general, but even sometimes their qualitative aftermath. Therefore, the present result call for new investigations of the subject. On the other hand, our result shows that the string-inspired theory presented in Minazzoli and Hees (2013) [13] is naturally solution to the problem of the effective constancy of the fundamental coupling constants at late cosmic times, while it requires less fine-tuning than other massless dilaton or usual scalar-tensor theories.

Orbital effects of spatial variations of fundamental coupling constants

We deal with the effects induced on the orbit of a test particle revolving around a central body by putative spatial variations of fundamental coupling constants $\zeta$. In particular, we assume a dipole gradient for $\zeta(\bds r)/\bar{\zeta}$ along a generic direction $\bds{\hat{k}}$ in space. We analytically work out the long-term variations of all the six standard Keplerian orbital elements parameterizing the orbit of a test particle in a gravitationally bound two-body system. It turns out that, apart from the semi-major axis $a$, the eccentricity $e$, the inclination $I$, the longitude of the ascending node $\Omega$, the longitude of pericenter $\pi$ and the mean anomaly $\mathcal{M}$ undergo non-zero long-term changes. By using the usual decomposition along the radial ($R$), transverse ($T$) and normal ($N$) directions, we also analytically work out the long-term changes $\Delta R,\Delta T,\Delta N$ and $\Delta v_R,\Delta v_T,\Delta v_N$ experienced by the position and the velocity vectors $\bds r$ and $\bds v$ of the test particle. It turns out that, apart from $\Delta N$, all the other five shifts do not vanish over one full orbital revolution. In the calculation we do not use \textit{a-priori} simplifying assumptions concerning $e$ and $I$. Thus, our results are valid for a generic orbital geometry; moreover, they hold for any gradient direction (abridged).

Magnetoelastic coupling in Fe100−xGex single crystals with 4<x<18

In this paper we examine the elastic (c′ and c44) and magnetostrictive (λ100 and λ111) behaviors of Fe100−xGex for 4<x<18, quantities used further to find the fundamental magnetoelastic coupling constants b1 and b2 at room temperature. The x dependence of b1 and b2 for Fe100−xGex is contrasted to those of Fe100−xGax and Fe100−xAlx. While the rhombohedral shear elastic constant c44 is almost insensitive to the type and amount of solute, the tetragonal shear constant c′ shows a pronounced and rapid softening with increasing x for all three alloys but with different decreasing slopes. Similarly, while the rhombohedral magnetostriction λ111 behavior is analogous for all three alloy systems, showing a sign change from negative to positive at the onset of chemical order, the tetragonal magnetostriction λ100 behavior differs. For the Ga and Al alloys, λ100 maintains positive values over the entire x range, both curves showing large peak values, whereas λ100 of Fe100−xGex exhibits a moderate positive peak followed by a negative dip, both of comparable magnitude. Finally the tetragonal coupling constant −b1 of Fe–Ge shows a marked, sharp decrease as chemical order occurs at x∼12 at. % Ge. The decline continues until the ordered D03 phase is fully established at x∼18 at. % Ge. The peak value of |b1| for Fe–Ge is approximately half of those for Fe–Ga and Fe–Al. This smaller value of |b1|, obtained for the higher electron concentration Ge alloy, is consistent with predictions based on band structure calculations. The rhombohedral coupling constant −b2 shows a consistent sign change at the occurrence of chemical ordering in both Fe–Ga and Fe–Ge.

The internal dynamics of the exceptional Lie symmetry groups hierarchy and the coupling constants of unification

This short note focuses on the internal dynamics of exceptional Lie symmetry group hierarchies. Primitive invariants of harmonic two and three Stein compact and non-compact dual spaces are reconnected to the relevant Stein spaces of the first kind. We are able to deduce various fundamental inverse coupling constant for non-super symmetric and super symmetric unification of all fundamental interactions of high energy physics.

The fundamental coupling constants of physics in connection with the dimension of the special orthogonal and unitary groups

Abstract In this work, we show the connection between the coupling constants and the dimensions of special orthogonal and unitary groups. A derivation of the exact theoretical value of the fine structure constant from groups SU(3), SO(9) and the Betti number is found.

Dispersed fluorescence spectroscopy of the CBr2Ã1B1–X̃1A1 transition

Dispersed fluorescence spectra following the excitation of the CBr2A1B1-X1A1 2 and 2 bands at visible wavelengths were acquired in a discharge supersonic free jet expansion using an intensified charge-coupled device (ICCD) detector. The dispersed fluorescence spectra show signal-to-noise ratios of up to 60 and extend out to a maximum red shift frequency of 6000 cm(-1). Complete and detailed vibrational structure of the ground singlet state (X1A1) was observed. Vibrational parameters including fundamental frequencies, anharmonicities, and coupling constants were determined for the CBr2 X1A1 state. Additional vibrational structure starting at approximately 3650 cm(-1) was observed and this indicates the singlet-triplet energy gap to be >10 kcal mol(-1).

New electronic spectra of the HCCl and DCCl A-X vibronic bands.

The dispersed fluorescence spectra following the excitation of several A<--X vibronic bands of HCCl and DCCl at visible wavelengths were successfully acquired in a discharge supersonic free jet expansion using an intensified charge-coupled device detector. The dispersed fluorescence spectra reveal more details of the X(1) A(') state vibrational structure in these molecules than previous reports. Dispersed fluorescence spectra of all four isotopomers (HC(35)Cl, HC(37)Cl, DC(35)Cl, and DC(37)Cl) were obtained. These dispersed fluorescence spectra exhibit the vibrational structures up to approximately 6000 cm(-1) above the zero-point level and determine the vibrational structures of HC(37)Cl and DC(37)Cl. Complete vibrational parameters including fundamental frequencies, anharmonicities, and coupling constants were determined for the HCCl/DCCl X(1) A(') state. Furthermore, perturbations from the background triplet state a(3) A(") and emission to triplet state levels were observed in the spectra. The singlet-triplet energy gap from the zero-point level could be determined to be 2167 cm(-1) (6.20+/-0.05 kcal/mol) in HCCl and to be 2187 cm(-1) (6.25+/-0.05 kcal/mol) in DCCl. Additionally, some of the A<--X excitation spectrum are reported for HCCl and DCCl.

Gravitational structure formation in scale relativity

In the framework of the theory of scale relativity, we suggest a solution to the cosmological problem of the formation and evolution of gravitational structures on many scales. This approach is based on the giving up of the hypothesis of differentiability of space-time coordinates. As a consequence of this generalization, space-time is not only curved, but also fractal. In analogy with Einstein’s general relativistic methods, we describe the effects of space fractality on motion by the construction of a covariant derivative. The principle of equivalence allows us to write the equation of dynamics as a geodesics equation that takes the form of the equation of free Galilean motion. Then, after a change of variables, this equation can be integrated in terms of a gravitational Schrödinger equation that involves a new fundamental gravitational coupling constant, α g= w 0/ c. Its solutions give probability densities that quantitatively describe precise morphologies in the position space and in the velocity space. Finally the theoretical predictions are successfully checked by a comparison with observational data: we find that matter is self-organized in accordance with the solutions of the gravitational Schrödinger equation on the basis of the universal constant w 0=144.7±0.7 km/s (and its multiples and sub-multiples), from the scale of our Earth and the Solar System to large scale structures of the Universe.

Nuclear Data in Oklo and Time-Variability of Fundamental Coupling Constants

We re-examined Shlyakhter’s analysis of the Sm data in Oklo. With a special care of minimizing contamination due to the inflow of the isotope after the end of the reactor activity, we confirmed that his result on the time-variability of the fine-structure constant, |ά/α|≲10−17y−1, was basically correct. In addition to this upper bound, however, we obtained another result that indicates a different value of α 2 billion years ago. We add comments on the recent result from QSO’s.

Possible evidence for a variable fine-structure constant from QSO absorption lines: motivations, analysis and results

An experimental search for variation in the fundamental coupling constants is strongly motivated by modern high-energy physics theories. Comparison of quasar (QSO) absorption-line spectra with laboratory spectra provides a sensitive probe for variability of the fine-structure constant, α, over cosmological time-scales. We have previously developed and applied a new method providing an order-of-magnitude gain in precision over previous optical astrophysical constraints. Here we extend that work by including new quasar spectra of damped Lyman-α absorption systems. We also reanalyse our previous lower-redshift data and confirm our initial results. The constraints on α come from simultaneous fitting of absorption lines of subsets of the following species: Mg-i, Mg-ii, Al-ii, Al-iii, Si-ii, Cr-ii, Fe-ii, Ni-ii and Zn-ii. We present a detailed description of our methods and results based on an analysis of 49 quasar absorption systems (towards 28 QSOs) covering the redshift range . There is statistical evidence for a smaller α at earlier epochs: The new and original samples are independent but separately yield consistent and significant non-zero values of . We summarize the results of a thorough investigation of systematic effects published in a companion paper. The value we quote above is the raw value, not corrected for any of these systematic effects. The only significant systematic effects so far identified, if removed from our data, would lead to a more significant deviation of from zero.

What have we learned from antiproton proton scattering?

From recent charge exchange measurements in the extreme forward direction, an independent and precise determination of the pion nucleon coupling constant is possible. This determination has reopened the debate on the value of this fundamental coupling constant of nuclear physics. Precise measurements of charge exchange observables at forward angles below 900 MeV/c would also give a better understanding of the long range part of the two-pion exchange potential. For example, the confirmation of the coherence of the tensor forces from the pion exchange and the isovector two-pion exchange would be very valuable. With the present data first attempts at an $\NbarN$ partial wave analysis have been made where, as in nucleon nucleon scattering, the antinucleon nucleon high J partial waves are mainly given by one-pion exchange. Finally a recent $\pbarp$ atomic cascade calculation and the fraction of P-state annihilation in gas targets is commented on.

THE THEORY OF SCALE RELATIVITY

Basing our discussion on the relative character of all scales in nature and on the explicit dependence of physical laws on scale in quantum physics, we apply the principle of relativity to scale transformations. This principle, in combination with its breaking above the Einstein-de Broglie wavelength and time, leads to the demonstration of the existence of a universal, absolute and impassable scale in nature, which is invariant under dilatation. This lower limit to all lengths is identified with the Planck scale, which now plays for scale the same role as is played by light velocity for motion. We get new scale transformations of a Lorentzian form and generalize the de Broglie and Heisenberg relations. As a consequence the high energy length and mass scales now decouple, energy and momentum tending to infinity when resolution tends to the Planck scale, which thus plays the role of the previous zero point. This theory solves the problem of divergence of charge and mass (self-energy) in electrodynamics, implies that the four fundamental couplings (including gravitation) converge at the Planck energy, improves the agreement of GUT predictions with experimental results, and allows one to get precise estimates of the values of the fundamental coupling constants.

A quantum field theory of phonons in crystals extended to the multi-band model II

The three-band model is applied to fcc structure crystals. The dynamical matrix is calculated by using fundamental coupling constants like chemical bondings. As the temperature decreases, the theory reduces that in the two-band model. There are three Nambu-Goldstone bosons which originate from those in the two-band model. Higher excited states modify the phonon dispersion curves derived in the two-band model. The three-band model clarifies the physical background of the shell model.

String tension and fundamental constants in the early Universe

An energy-dependent string tension could be connected to the fundamental physical and coupling constants. The role of Weyl gravity for sub-Planckian as well as macroscopic domains is explored and the existence of a hierarchy of scales is considered.

Density-dependent couplings and astrophysical bounds on light scalar particles

The couplings of a light scalar to ordinary matter induce non-vanishing fields φ inside and around stars. In turn, the masses and couplings of ordinary particles depend on φ in general. Thus, fundamental coupling constants can be altered by dense matter nearby. We estimate the resulting effect on the cooling of neutron stars, the neutrino burst from supernova 1987 A and the period of the pulsar recently discovered in its remnant, and obtain bounds on the mass and couplings of scalar particles. We also comment on cosmological and other constraints on such scalar particles, and discuss in particular bounds on the mass of the dilaton in string theories.