Early Universe Constraints on Time Variation of Fundamental Constants

TL;DR

This paper investigates how fundamental constants like the fine structure constant and Higgs vacuum expectation value may have varied over time in the early Universe, using observational data to set constraints without relying on specific theories.

Contribution

It provides model-independent constraints on the early Universe variation of fundamental constants using cosmological data.

Findings

Constraints on the variation of the fine structure constant $\alpha$

Constraints on the variation of the Higgs vacuum expectation value $<v>$

Derived relationship between variations of $\alpha$ and $m_e$

Abstract

We study the time variation of fundamental constants in the early Universe. Using data from primordial light nuclei abundances, CMB and the 2dFGRS power spectrum, we put constraints on the time variation of the fine structure constant $\alpha$, and the Higgs vacuum expectation value $<v>$ without assuming any theoretical framework. A variation in $<v>$ leads to a variation in the electron mass, among other effects. Along the same line, we study the variation of $\alpha$ and the electron mass $m_e$. In a purely phenomenological fashion, we derive a relationship between both variations.