Density dependent displaced vertex signatures as a novel probe of light dark sector scalars at the LHC

TL;DR

This paper proposes a new method using displaced vertex signatures at the LHC to detect light dark sector scalars, exploiting the environmental sensitivity predicted by dark energy theories.

Contribution

It introduces a novel phenomenological signature at the LHC for probing dark energy motivated light scalars, leveraging the unique detector capabilities of ATLAS and CMS.

Findings

Potential sensitivity to dark sector scalars at the LHC

Identification of a new displaced vertex signature

Complementary detector design advantages

Abstract

Dynamical theories of dark energy predict new degrees of freedom with particular environmental sensitivity to avoid constraints on fifth forces. We show that the similar, yet complementary multi-purpose detector setup of the ATLAS and CMS experiments provides a unique opportunity to place sensitivity on such scenarios in a narrow, yet relevant parameter range. Furthermore, our investigation gives rise to a novel phenomenological signature that the LHC experiments can pursue to exploit their complementary detector design from a BSM perspective.