A Comprehensive Look at Nucleon Decay Modes for the DUNE Experiment
Advisor(s)
Dr. Maury Goodman; Argonne National Laboratory
Discipline
Physical Science
Start Date
21-4-2021 10:05 AM
End Date
21-4-2021 10:20 AM
Abstract
In the past, nucleons (protons and bound neutrons) were thought to have been absolutely stable; however. Since the 1970s, there have been a variety of theories in the form of Grand Unified Theories (GUTs) suggesting that they are not stable. Since then, various experiments have tried and failed to find solid evidence for this proton or nucleon decay, but DUNE seeks to change this, or to at least establish improved lifetime decay limits. Our current project focuses on the use of 100 decay modes on the decay of protons and nucleons, and compiling a list of comparisons for use for the DUNE Experiment. After this, we would calculate the efficiency of decaying particles to come out of the nucleus in the modes, and assuming they did get out, the possibility of reconstructing them. After this, we would compare it to the Super-K Experiment. After this, we are taking estimates of reconstruction efficiencies in a liquid argon detector, and attempting to recalculating our ability to see these mods in DUNE, and comparing that to Super-K.
A Comprehensive Look at Nucleon Decay Modes for the DUNE Experiment
In the past, nucleons (protons and bound neutrons) were thought to have been absolutely stable; however. Since the 1970s, there have been a variety of theories in the form of Grand Unified Theories (GUTs) suggesting that they are not stable. Since then, various experiments have tried and failed to find solid evidence for this proton or nucleon decay, but DUNE seeks to change this, or to at least establish improved lifetime decay limits. Our current project focuses on the use of 100 decay modes on the decay of protons and nucleons, and compiling a list of comparisons for use for the DUNE Experiment. After this, we would calculate the efficiency of decaying particles to come out of the nucleus in the modes, and assuming they did get out, the possibility of reconstructing them. After this, we would compare it to the Super-K Experiment. After this, we are taking estimates of reconstruction efficiencies in a liquid argon detector, and attempting to recalculating our ability to see these mods in DUNE, and comparing that to Super-K.