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Search for Dark-Matter-Nucleon Interactions via Migdal Effect with DarkSide-50.
P Agnes1, I F M Albuquerque2, T Alexander3
1Department of Physics, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham TW20 0EX, United Kingdom.
We present new constraints for sub-GeV dark matter using the Migdal effect in liquid argon. This analysis significantly enhances sensitivity, enabling detection of dark matter down to 40 MeV/c^2.
Area of Science:
- Particle Physics
- Astrophysics
- Cosmology
Background:
- Dark matter interactions with atomic nuclei can cause excitation and ionization via the Migdal effect.
- This effect allows for the detection of low-mass dark matter particles (sub-GeV/c²).
Purpose of the Study:
- To present new constraints on sub-GeV/c² dark matter.
- To enhance the sensitivity of dark matter detection experiments.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing the DarkSide-50 dual-phase liquid argon time projection chamber.
- Analyzing ionization signals alone from an exposure of 12,306 kg d.
- Applying the Migdal effect to detect low-mass dark matter.
Main Results:
- Achieved sensitivity to dark matter with masses as low as 40 MeV/c².
- Set the most stringent upper limit on the spin-independent dark matter-nucleon cross section for masses below 3.6 GeV/c².
- Significantly enhanced the sensitivity of the DarkSide-50 experiment.
Conclusions:
- The Migdal effect analysis opens a new window for detecting low-mass dark matter.
- This study provides crucial constraints for ongoing and future dark matter searches.
- The DarkSide-50 experiment demonstrates powerful capabilities for exploring the sub-GeV dark matter landscape.
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