Radiative Screening of Fifth Forces

Area of Science:

• Theoretical Physics
• Cosmology
• Particle Physics

Background:

• Fifth forces are hypothetical interactions beyond the four known fundamental forces.
• Current experimental constraints limit the detectability of many fifth force models.
• Spontaneous symmetry breaking is a key concept in particle physics for generating mass and phenomena.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a novel symmetron model for fifth force screening.
• To investigate the role of the Coleman-Weinberg mechanism in this screening.
• To assess the model's compatibility with existing experimental constraints and its potential for future detection.

Main Methods:

• Development of a symmetron field theory incorporating the Coleman-Weinberg mechanism.
• One-loop calculations to analyze spontaneous symmetry breaking and force screening.
• Comparison of theoretical predictions with current experimental limits on fifth forces.

Main Results:

• The symmetron model successfully screens fifth forces at the one-loop level.
• The model evades current stringent experimental constraints.
• Observable deviations from general relativity are predicted within the model's framework.

Conclusions:

• The Coleman-Weinberg mechanism provides a viable route to screen fifth forces within a symmetron model.
• This theoretical framework offers a promising avenue for future experimental searches.
• Cold atom experiments are identified as a potential platform for detecting predicted deviations from general relativity.