Atomic clocks could help detect dark matter; knowledge

A team of scientists suggests that atomic clocks could be used to detect energy fluctuations, according to a new study published in the scientific journal New Journal of Physics. A technique that can result observation of dark matter. The paper was led by researchers at the University of Sussex and the UK National Physical Laboratory in England.

Experts theorize that it is possible to use Atomic clocks are considered the most accurate time measuring device in the worldTo detect different low mass particles. Hypothetically, these particles constitute dark matter; Therefore, the method could help learn more about one of the greatest mysteries of the universe.

What is dark matter?

Classified as one of the most intriguing ‘elements’ in space, dark matter is an invisible force that is theoretically responsible for grouping all galaxies in the universe together. Currently astronomers believe that 23% of the universe consists of dark matter, 73% dark energy, and only 4% normal matter, which is already known to science.

“We present a new framework to study the temporal variation of fundamental constants in a model-independent manner. Model independence means more free parameters than assumed in previous studies. Using data from atomic clocks… Fine structure constant and electron-proton mass ratio”, the research It is explained in the introduction section.

Atomic clocks and dark matter

Atomic clocks are extremely accurate, so Any barely noticeable oscillation can be detected, even in the case of an ultralight dark matter particle. So far, scientists have already made theoretical models and readings of these tools to prove the feasibility of the new approach, but they still need to conduct theory-driven experiments.

It is worth emphasizing that the paper is just a theory, but positive results will be extremely important for understanding physics as we know it. According to the researchers, the study is not based on pre-existing hypotheses and can be applied to other scientific phenomena.

“We consider changes on time scales ranging from a minute to almost a day. Moreover, we use our results to obtain some of the tightest bounds to date on the parameter space of ultralight dark matter and axial-like particle models… The investigation of the variability of fundamental constants is tightly linked to the fundamental assumptions and outstanding problems of the universe. Modern physics,” the researchers explain in the paper.

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