What does a 4.2$\sigma$ discrepancy mean? A brief remark on the statistics of the Muon g-2 Experiment

TL;DR

This paper critically examines the statistical significance of the 4.2σ discrepancy reported by the Muon g-2 Experiment, questioning the interpretation of this result within the context of experimental and theoretical uncertainties.

Contribution

It provides a critical analysis of the statistical interpretation of the Muon g-2 discrepancy, highlighting potential issues in understanding its significance.

Findings

Questions the standard interpretation of the 4.2σ discrepancy

Highlights the importance of statistical context in experimental physics

Suggests careful reconsideration of the significance level in the Muon g-2 results

Abstract

On April 7, 2001 the Muon g-2 Experiment at Fermilab presented its first results which lead to a 4.2$\sigma$ discrepancy between the world average of the muon anomalous magnetic dipole moment and the standard model prediction of this quantity. I take issue with the statistical meaning of this finding.