What does "Baryon Number Violation" mean?
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Baryon number violation refers to processes where the total number of baryons, which are particles like protons and neutrons that make up atomic nuclei, changes in a way that is not allowed by our current understanding of physics. Normally, the laws of physics preserve the baryon number, meaning that whatever happens, the total count of these particles should stay the same.
Importance of Baryon Number Violation
Researchers are interested in baryon number violation because it could help explain why there is more matter than antimatter in the universe. If certain rare processes that break this rule can occur, they might provide clues to new physics beyond what we already know.
Links to Dark Sector and ALPs
Some theories suggest that particles from a "dark sector," like axions or axion-like particles, could cause baryon number violation. These particles are thought to interact differently than standard particles and could lead to the decay of nucleons in unusual ways. By studying how these interactions work, scientists hope to learn more about the fundamental rules that govern the universe.
Current Research Directions
Scientists are examining various experiments and theories to find signs of baryon number violation. This includes looking for specific types of particle decays and studying the effects of certain conditions in the early universe. Understanding these processes may eventually shed light on some of the biggest questions in physics, such as why our universe contains more matter than antimatter.