Is there a limit to the possible masses of particles in the universe?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the existence of particles with varying masses in the universe, particularly in relation to the Higgs boson and its potential mass exceeding 125 GeV. The participants emphasize that while quantum mechanics allows for the theoretical simulation of particles at different masses, the actual existence of such particles is contingent upon the fundamental laws of nature. The conversation highlights the distinction between theoretical possibilities and confirmed physical realities, asserting that the existence of a particle with a specific mass, such as 300 GeV, remains uncertain until proven by empirical evidence.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum mechanics principles
  • Familiarity with particle physics and the Standard Model
  • Knowledge of Monte Carlo simulations in physics
  • Basic comprehension of Higgs boson properties and mass implications
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of Higgs boson mass on particle physics theories
  • Explore advanced Monte Carlo simulation techniques for particle detection
  • Study the current experimental findings from the CMS collaboration
  • Investigate the fundamental laws of nature and their impact on particle existence
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Physicists, particle researchers, and students in the field of quantum mechanics and particle physics who are interested in the theoretical and experimental aspects of particle mass and existence.

Silviu
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Hello! I read that, according to quantum mechanics, any physical process must happen with a certain probability if it is not forbidden by symmetry/conservation laws. And now I just started an internship at the CMS aiming to find a Higgs like particle with mass higher that 125 GeV. And we have Monte Carlo simulations of the signal of this particle at different masses. My question is, as we are able to simulate the signal, it means we have some theory predicting a certain Higgs mass which means that all these simulated masses are possible to be achieved (as they can be modeled theoretical I assume there is nothing to prevent their existence). So I was wondering, is there anything that would prevent the existence of a particle at any mass? Like taking a random mass (300 GeV for example) does it mean that there is a particle in the universe having that mass?
 
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You are mixing two different things of "possible" here.

The first one is "possible according to the laws of nature". If a process is possible, it has a non-zero probability. That is basically the definition of "possible".

The second one is "this could be a law of nature - we don't know, it is possible". The universe follows some laws which we do not know fully today. But it only follows a single set of fundamental laws (by definition).
There could be a particle type with a mass of 300 GeV - we don't know. But either there is, or there is not, and it is just a matter of our knowledge.
 
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