Low-energy precision tests of the standard model: a snapshot

• Published in: Annalen der Physik 2016-01, Vol.528 (1-2), p.115-122
• Main Author: Hertzog, David W.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Alternative energy sources; Deviation; electric dipole moments; Electric power generation; Large Hadron Collider; Low energy; Mathematical models; muon physics; Particle physics; precision physics; Searching; Standard model (particle physics); weak interaction
• ISSN: 0003-3804; 1521-3889
• DOI: 10.1002/andp.201500167

This brief review describes a class of uniquely crafted particle physics experiments that typically each tackle just one investigation—and they do that very well. The aim of these experiments is to both establish Standard Model parameters and also to provide unique tests in search of new physics. I provide a brief snapshot of many of the current activities, selected with a bias toward low‐energy and high precision. These include searches for permanent electric dipole moments, charged lepton flavor violation, tests of the weak interaction, and other broad searches for deviations from very precise Standard Model predictions, such as the muon's anomalous magnetic moment. I highlight what drives these efforts and how they might impact a new Standard Model. The deserved world's attention on the re‐energized atom‐smashing power of the Large Hadron Collider anticipates the discovery of new physics beyond the Standard Model. However, there is a quieter, alternative and complementary approach, which does not rely on Earth‐shattering high energy collisions, but instead uses exquisite precision to hunt for deviations from Standard Model expectations. In this review, we describe a series of these unique experiments that may have far reaching implications.