Massive Galaxy Clusters Like El Gordo Hint at Primordial Quantum Diffusion

Area of Science:

• Cosmology
• Astrophysics
• Quantum Mechanics

Background:

• Standard cosmological model assumes Gaussian initial density perturbations.
• Primordial quantum diffusion generates non-Gaussian, exponential tails in inflationary perturbations.

Purpose of the Study:

• Investigate the impact of non-Gaussian, exponential tails on large-scale structure formation.
• Analyze consequences for halo mass function and cluster abundance.

Main Methods:

• Theoretical computation of halo mass function and cluster abundance.
• Incorporation of exponential tails from quantum diffusion into cosmological models.

Main Results:

• Exponential tails enhance the probability of very-large-scale structures (heavy clusters, large voids).
• Quantum diffusion increases heavy cluster numbers and depletes subhalos.
• This effect is not captured by standard f_NL corrections.

Conclusions:

• Late-Universe signatures, like enhanced cluster counts, can reveal quantum dynamics during inflation.
• Findings necessitate incorporating quantum diffusion effects into N-body simulations.
• Astrophysical data should be checked against these quantum-influenced predictions.