Charges on strange quark nuggets in space

E. S. Abers, A. K. Bhatia, D. A. Dicus, W. W. Repko, D. C. Rosenbaum, and V. L. Teplitz
Phys. Rev. D 79, 023513 – Published 22 January 2009

Abstract

Since Witten’s seminal 1984 paper on the subject, searches for evidence of strange quark nuggets (SQNs) have proven unsuccessful. In the absence of experimental evidence ruling out SQNs, the validity of theories introducing mechanisms that increase their stability should continue to be tested. To stimulate electromagnetic SQN searches, particularly space searches, we estimate the net charge that would develop on a SQN in space exposed to various radiation baths (and showers) capable of liberating the SQN’s less strongly bound electrons, taking into account recombination with ambient electrons. We consider, in particular, the cosmic microwave background, radiation from the sun, and diffuse galactic and extragalactic ultraviolet backgrounds. The largest charge, for the settings considered, develops on a solar system SQN exposed to a solar X-ray flare. A possible dramatic signal of SQNs in explosive astrophysical events is noted.

  • Figure
  • Figure
  • Figure
  • Figure
  • Received 7 March 2008

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevD.79.023513

©2009 American Physical Society

Authors & Affiliations

E. S. Abers1, A. K. Bhatia2, D. A. Dicus3, W. W. Repko4, D. C. Rosenbaum5, and V. L. Teplitz2,5

  • 1Department of Physics and Astronomy, UCLA, Los Angeles, California 90095-1547, USA
  • 2NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Maryland 20771, USA
  • 3Physics Department, University of Texas, Austin, Texas 78712, USA
  • 4Department of Physics and Astronomy, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, USA
  • 5Physics Department, Southern Methodist University, Dallas, Texas 75275, USA

Article Text (Subscription Required)

Click to Expand

References (Subscription Required)

Click to Expand
Issue

Vol. 79, Iss. 2 — 15 January 2009

Reuse & Permissions
Access Options
Author publication services for translation and copyediting assistance advertisement

Authorization Required


×
×

Images

×

Sign up to receive regular email alerts from Physical Review D

Log In

Cancel
×

Search


Article Lookup

Paste a citation or DOI

Enter a citation
×