When is a right handed neutrino a heavy neutral lepton(HNL)?

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of right handed neutrinos and their classification as heavy neutral leptons. They are found in various extensions of the standard model, such as the neutrino minimal standard model (vMSM) and left-right symmetric models. They are sometimes referred to as HNL, but this terminology may only apply in certain models or with specific constraints. The speaker also mentions that the nuMSM should not be considered on the same level as left-right symmetric models, as it is a different type of model designed to address specific problems in the standard model. Overall, it is noted that right handed neutrinos can be classified as heavy neutral fermions if they are indeed heavy.
  • #1
Trixie Mattel
29
0
Hello,

I was just wondering when is a right handed neutrino a heavy neutral lepton?

I know that RH neutrinos show up in a number of extension to the standard model, for example the neutrino minimal standard model (vMSM) and Left-right symmetric extensions.

Ive heard them being referred to as HNL at times and was wondering is it a name that can always be used for RH neutrinos? Or is it only in certain models, or with certain constraints that they can be called heavy neutral leptons?
 
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  • #2
I strongly advise that you stop putting the nuMSM at the same level as LR symmetric models. The nuMSM is not a model in the same sense as it is essentially a particular realisation of a type I seesaw where the parameters are chosen in a particular fashion in order to solve a set of SM problems.

Right handed neutrinos are not always heavy. If they are not, they would not be classified as such. However, if they are, they would be heavy neutral fermions.
 

1. What is a right handed neutrino?

A right handed neutrino is a theoretical particle that is the counterpart of the left-handed neutrino, which is a well-studied particle in the Standard Model of particle physics. Unlike the left-handed neutrino, the right-handed neutrino does not interact through the weak nuclear force and is therefore much harder to detect.

2. What is a heavy neutral lepton (HNL)?

A heavy neutral lepton (HNL) is a hypothetical type of particle that is predicted by some extensions of the Standard Model of particle physics. It is believed to be a heavier version of the neutrino and could potentially explain some of the mysteries in the universe, such as dark matter.

3. How do we know when a right handed neutrino is a HNL?

The existence of a right handed neutrino HNL can be inferred through experiments and observations of physical phenomena, such as neutrino oscillations and particle collisions. However, the full confirmation of a HNL would require direct detection and identification of the particle itself.

4. Why is the discovery of a HNL important?

The discovery of a HNL would have significant implications in the field of particle physics and cosmology. It could provide insight into the nature of dark matter and help explain the imbalance between matter and antimatter in the universe. It could also help us better understand the properties and interactions of neutrinos.

5. How close are we to detecting a HNL?

Currently, there is no conclusive evidence for the existence of a HNL. However, ongoing experiments and research in particle physics, such as the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), are actively searching for this particle. With advancements in technology and further scientific discoveries, we may be able to detect a HNL in the near future.

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