Magnetised quark nuggets in the atmosphere

TL;DR

This study searched for magnetised quark nuggets in the Earth's atmosphere using acoustic signals in the Great Salt Lake, setting new limits on their flux and comparing results with existing models.

Contribution

First acoustic search for magnetised quark nuggets in a natural environment, establishing flux limits and comparing with theoretical formation models.

Findings

No MQN events detected

Set new upper limits on MQN flux

Results consistent with existing models

Abstract

A search for magnetised quark nuggets (MQN) is reported using acoustic signals from hydrophones placed in the Great Salt Lake (GSL) in the USA. No events satisfying the expected signature were seen. This observation allows limits to be set on the flux of MQNs penetrating the atmosphere and depositing energy in the GSL. The expected signature of the events was derived from pressure pulses caused by high-explosive cords between the lake surface and bottom at various locations in the GSL. The limits obtained from this search are compared with those obtained from previous searches and are compared to models for the formation of MQNs.