Phase transition in the fine structure constant

TL;DR

This paper proposes a cosmological model with a phase transition in the fine structure constant at redshift 0.5, explaining observational hints of variability while remaining consistent with early universe constraints.

Contribution

It introduces a mass-varying neutrino model that predicts a phase transition in t redshift 0.5, aligning with quasar observations and early universe limits.

Findings

Models a phase transition in t redshift 0.5

Compatible with quasar spectral hints of volution

Consistent with recombination and nucleosynthesis constraints

Abstract

Within the context of mass-varying neutrinos, we construct a cosmological model that has a phase transition in the electromagnetic fine structure constant \alpha at a redshift of 0.5. The model accommodates hints of a time variable \alpha in quasar spectra and the nonobservance of such an effect at very low redshifts. It is consistent with limits from the recombination and primordial nucleosynthesis eras and is free of instabilities.