Minimal 3+2 sterile neutrino model at LBNE

TL;DR

This paper investigates LBNE's ability to detect or exclude a minimal model with two additional sterile neutrinos in the eV mass range, using a modified parametrization and existing experimental constraints.

Contribution

It introduces a modified Casas-Ibarra parametrization for sterile neutrinos and analyzes LBNE's sensitivity to this model, including degeneracy issues with CP-violation.

Findings

LBNE can potentially detect sterile neutrinos or exclude certain models.

Degeneracy exists between sterile neutrino signals and CP-violation scenarios.

Existing constraints from Daya Bay and T2K help differentiate models.

Abstract

In this paper we examine the sensitivity of the Long Baseline Neutrino Oscillation Experiment to the inclusion of two new sterile neutrino flavors with masses in the eV range. We implement a model with a modified Casas-Ibarra parametrization which can accommodate medium scale mass eigenstates and introduces a new complex mixing angle. We explore the new mixing angle parameter space and demonstrate how LBNE can be used to either provide evidence for or rule out a particular model of sterile neutrinos. Certain three-flavor CP-violation scenarios cannot be distinguished from the sterile neutrinos. Constraints from the Daya Bay reactor experiment and T2K are used to help lift this degeneracy.