Axion Decay Width: Mass 10^-6 eV, Primakoff Effect

In summary, the conversation discusses the frequency width of a decaying axion with a mass of 10^-6 eV. The axion decays via the primakoff effect and produces one photon in the final state. The width of the signal is determined by the spectrum of incoming axions and can be precisely calculated using conservation of energy and momentum.
  • #1
florian101
12
0
hello
I would like to know the frequency width of a decaying axion
Lets say the axion has a mass of 10^-6 eV and it decays via the primakoff effect within a B field into one photon. Because there is only one photon in the final state I would assume that the photon frequency is quite narrow but what actually defines the width of the signal?
thanks
florian
 
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  • #2
Spectrum of incoming axions, I think? Primakoff effect is just a fancy name for scattering, a+Z -> gamma+Z. Final frequency should be exactly computable if we know initial energy and scattering angle, simply using conservation of energy & momentum (since all particles are stable).
 
  • #3


The decay width of an axion is determined by its mass and the strength of the interaction causing the decay. In the case of the primakoff effect, the decay width is determined by the strength of the axion-photon coupling constant. This coupling constant is typically very small, leading to a narrow decay width for the axion.

The width of the signal from the decay will also depend on the experimental setup and the detection method. If the detector has a high energy resolution, it will be able to detect the narrow frequency range of the photon from the decay. However, if the detector has a lower energy resolution, the signal from the decay may appear broader.

In summary, the decay width of an axion with a mass of 10^-6 eV decaying via the primakoff effect will be determined by the strength of the axion-photon coupling constant and the energy resolution of the detector.
 

1. What is the Axion Decay Width for a mass of 10^-6 eV?

The Axion Decay Width is a measure of the rate at which axions decay into photons, and it is dependent on the mass of the axion. For a mass of 10^-6 eV, the Axion Decay Width is estimated to be around 10^-18 eV, which is incredibly small.

2. What is the Primakoff Effect in relation to Axion Decay Width?

The Primakoff Effect is a phenomenon where photons can be produced from the decay of an axion in the presence of an electric or magnetic field. This effect plays a crucial role in the calculation of the Axion Decay Width for a given mass, as it contributes to the total decay rate.

3. How is the Axion Decay Width measured?

The Axion Decay Width is typically measured through experiments that look for the production of photons from axion decay. These experiments involve creating a strong electric or magnetic field and then observing the resulting photon production, which can be used to calculate the Axion Decay Width for a specific mass.

4. What is the significance of a mass of 10^-6 eV in Axion Decay Width?

The Axion Decay Width is of particular interest for a mass of 10^-6 eV because it is within the range of masses predicted by the theory of axion particles. This mass range is also within the sensitivity of current experimental techniques, making it an important target for further research and study.

5. Are there any implications of the Axion Decay Width for mass 10^-6 eV in cosmology?

Yes, the Axion Decay Width for a mass of 10^-6 eV has implications for cosmology as axions are considered a potential candidate for dark matter. By studying the Axion Decay Width, scientists can gain a better understanding of the behavior and properties of axions, which can help in the search for dark matter and further our understanding of the universe.

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