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Particle Physics and Early Universe

Vak
2014-2015

Description

This course will discuss how particle physics defines physics of the early universe, the subsequent cosmological scenario and the current state of the universe. Starting with basics of the Standard Model of particle physics (SM), we will see how the whole intricate structure of this theory exhibits itself in a hot and dense, quickly expanding universe. We will demonstrate that this allows to use astrophysical and cosmological observational data to check the SM. The next part will discuss the shortcomings of the Standard Model and different approaches to resolve them, as well as implications of this beyond the SM physics for the early universe (most importantly: the nature of dark matter, dark energy, mechanisms of baryogenesis and inflation).
Topics:

  • Relativistics QM, weak intercation, Fermi model

  • Primoridal nucleosynthesis and big bang theory

  • Neutrinos in the early univrese and relic neutrinos at present epoch

  • Dark matter: evidence, DM particles, massive neutrinos as dark matter.

  • Neutrino masses, mixing angle, CP violation

  • DM as beyond the SM physics. Possible properties of non-SM DM particles: WIMPs, super-WIMPs, axions

  • Basic ideas of effective field theory and the structure of the Stabdard Model of particle physics. Neutrino masses as BSM physics

  • The problem of baryogenesis. Baryogenesis as a beyond SM phenomenon

  • An overview of various beyond SM scenarios and their implications for cosmology.

Programme form

Lectures and problem sessions, weekly assignments

Literature

Recommended -Introduction to the Theory of the Early Universe: Hot Big Bang Theory by D.Gorbunov & V.Rubakov, World Scientific, 2010; -Principles of physical cosmology by P.J.E. Peebles, Princeton University Press, 1993; -http://arxiv.org/abs/hep-ph/0004188 by J.Garcia-Bellido ### Schedule

Physics Schedule

Form of examination

Oral exam

Prerequisites

Bachelor of Physics with the course Physics of Elementary Particles or a clear equivalent
Recommended Effective Field Theory and Origin and Evolution of the Universe

More information

Lecturer: Dr. A. Boyarsky (Alexey)