Shape of exclusion plots of WIMP

In summary, the "U" shape of exclusion plots in WIMP experiments is due to a combination of two effects. First, detectors need the WIMP particle density, which decreases as the particle mass increases. This results in weaker cross section limits for larger WIMP masses. Second, at low WIMP masses, the energy transfer to the detector decreases, causing a loss of sensitivity. This is why the lines on the plot are parallel and follow a linear relation for larger WIMP masses.
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BillKet
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Hello! What is the reason why the exclusion plots of WIMP experiments have that "U" like shape? And what sets the minimum of the curve? Thank you!
 
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You can find this discussed in the publications. It's largely a combination of two effects:
* We have a pretty good estimate for the WIMP mass density from gravity, but detectors need the WIMP particle density, which is the mass density divided by the particle mass. Larger mass -> smaller particle density -> fewer expected interactions at the same cross section -> weaker cross section limits. That's why all these lines are parallel and following a simple linear relation for large WIMP masses.
* At low WIMP masses the energy transfer to the detector gets smaller, so the detectors quickly lose sensitivity.
 
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1. What is a WIMP?

A WIMP (Weakly Interacting Massive Particle) is a hypothetical particle that is a candidate for dark matter, which is a form of matter that does not interact with light and makes up about 85% of the total matter in the universe.

2. What is an exclusion plot?

An exclusion plot is a graphical representation of the results of experiments designed to search for WIMPs. It shows the regions of parameter space (such as mass and interaction strength) where a WIMP could exist based on the data collected from the experiment.

3. How are exclusion plots created?

Exclusion plots are created by analyzing the data from experiments that use different detection methods, such as direct detection (looking for WIMPs interacting with matter) or indirect detection (looking for the products of WIMP annihilation or decay). The results from these experiments are then compared to theoretical predictions to create the exclusion plot.

4. What do the different shapes on an exclusion plot represent?

The shapes on an exclusion plot represent the different regions of parameter space where a WIMP could exist based on the data from the experiments. The shaded regions indicate where a WIMP is excluded, meaning that the experiment did not find evidence for a WIMP in that particular region.

5. What can we learn from the shape of an exclusion plot?

The shape of an exclusion plot can provide valuable information about the properties of WIMPs and their potential interactions with matter. It can also help to guide future experiments and narrow down the search for WIMPs. Additionally, the shape of an exclusion plot can be compared to predictions from different theoretical models to test their validity.

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