On the origin, dynamics, and detection of superheavy, ultralight, and composite dark matter.
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Authors
Bhoonah, Amit
Date
Type
thesis
Language
eng
Keyword
Dark Matter.
Alternative Title
Abstract
In this thesis we explore numerous theoretical and phenomenological ideas in the quest to uncover the nature and workings of dark matter in the universe.
In Chapter 1 we provide a broad introduction to the thesis, introducing many theoretical concepts that will be useful for later chapters.
In Chapter 2 we describe how gravitational fields, specifically those of expanding universes, can lead to the production of particles. This is identified as a mechanism through which dark matter could have been created in the early universe.
In Chapter 3 we explore mechanisms for making very heavy dark matter particles. We identify gravitational wave signatures of such dark matter candidates and motivate gravitational wave detectors as tools for uncovering the fundamental nature of dark matter.
In Chapter 4 we describe how gas clouds located near the center of the Milky Way can act as very sensitive probes of many dark matter candidates, namely milli-charged, dark photon, vector portal, and composite dark matter models. These clouds complement existing terrestrial experiments for dark matter.
In Chapter 5 we show that plastic track detectors mounted on the Skylab space station and underground in the Ohya stone quarry in Japan can help place new constraints on Strongly Interacting Massive Particle models of dark matter. Our work revisits old constraints on such dark matter models and, through a more careful treatment, places stronger constraints on them.
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Queen's University's Thesis/Dissertation Non-Exclusive License for Deposit to QSpace and Library and Archives Canada
ProQuest PhD and Master's Theses International Dissemination Agreement
Intellectual Property Guidelines at Queen's University
Copying and Preserving Your Thesis
This publication is made available by the authority of the copyright owner solely for the purpose of private study and research and may not be copied or reproduced except as permitted by the copyright laws without written authority from the copyright owner.
CC0 1.0 Universal
ProQuest PhD and Master's Theses International Dissemination Agreement
Intellectual Property Guidelines at Queen's University
Copying and Preserving Your Thesis
This publication is made available by the authority of the copyright owner solely for the purpose of private study and research and may not be copied or reproduced except as permitted by the copyright laws without written authority from the copyright owner.
CC0 1.0 Universal