Running Inflation in the Standard Model

TL;DR

This paper explores a quantum inflationary model within the Standard Model using renormalization group methods, predicting specific spectral indices and linking them to the Higgs mass, with implications for future experiments.

Contribution

It introduces a quantum treatment of Higgs-driven inflation in the Standard Model, incorporating running couplings and Planck mass effects, which was not previously analyzed in detail.

Findings

Predicted spectral index range consistent with WMAP5 data

Identified a sharp relationship between Higgs mass and spectral index

Future data from PLANCK and LHC could test these predictions

Abstract

An interacting scalar field with largish coupling to curvature can support a distinctive inflationary universe scenario. Previously this has been discussed for the Standard Model Higgs field, treated classically or in a leading log approximation. Here we investigate the quantum theory using renormalization group methods. In this model the running of both the effective Planck mass and the couplings is important. The cosmological predictions are consistent with existing WMAP5 data, with 0.967 < n_s < 0.98 (for N_e = 60) and negligible gravity waves. We find a relationship between the spectral index and the Higgs mass that is sharply varying for m_h ~ 120-135 GeV (depending on the top mass); in the future, that relationship could be tested against data from PLANCK and LHC. We also comment briefly on how similar dynamics might arise in more general settings, and discuss our assumptions from the effective field theory point of view.