Unifying inflation and dark matter

TL;DR

This paper proposes a minimal extension of the Standard Model where a single scalar field accounts for cosmic inflation, dark matter, and neutrino masses, with testable predictions for upcoming experiments.

Contribution

It introduces a unified model linking inflation, dark matter, and neutrino masses within a minimal Standard Model extension.

Findings

Scalar field explains inflation and dark matter.

Model predicts neutrino masses from inflaton self-coupling.

Testable in upcoming ground-based experiments.

Abstract

We present a simple model where a scalar field is responsible for cosmic inflation and generates the seed for structure formation, while its thermal relic abundance explains dark matter in the universe. The inflaton self-coupling also explains the observed neutrino masses. All the virtues can be attained in a minimal extension of the Standard Model gauge group around the TeV scale. We can also unveil these properties in the forthcoming ground based experiments.