arXiv subjects

W. Rodejohann

Publications and source records attributed to W. Rodejohann.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources

arXiv2022

Search for keV-scale Sterile Neutrinos with first KATRIN Data

In this work we present a keV-scale sterile-neutrino search with the first tritium data of the KATRIN experiment, acquired in the commissioning run in 2018. KATRIN performs a spectroscopic measurement of the tritium $β$-decay spectrum with the main goal of directly determining the effective electron anti-neutrino mass. During this commissioning phase a lower tritium activity facilitated the search for sterile neutrinos with a mass of up to $1.6\, \mathrm{keV}$. We do not find a signal and set an exclusion limit on the sterile-to-active mixing amplitude of down to $\sin^2θ< 5\cdot10^{-4}$ ($95\,\%$ C.L.), improving current laboratory-based bounds in the sterile-neutrino mass range between 0.1 and $1.0\, \mathrm{keV}$.

nucl-ex↗

arXiv2022

Search for Lorentz-Invariance Violation with the first KATRIN data

Some extensions of the Standard Model of Particle Physics allow for Lorentz invariance and Charge-Parity-Time (CPT)-invariance violations. In the neutrino sector strong constraints have been set by neutrino-oscillation and time-of-flight experiments. However, some Lorentz-invariance-violating parameters are not accessible via these probes. In this work, we focus on the parameters $(a_{\text{of}}^{(3)})_{00}$, $(a_{\text{of}}^{(3)})_{10}$ and $(a_{\text{of}}^{(3)})_{11}$ which would manifest themselves in a non-isotropic beta-decaying source as a sidereal oscillation and an overall shift of the spectral endpoint. Based on the data of the first scientific run of the KATRIN experiment, we set the first limit on $\left|(a_{\text{of}}^{(3)})_{11}\right|$ of $< 3.7\cdot10^{-6}$ GeV at 90\% confidence level. Moreover, we derive new constraints on $(a_{\text{of}}^{(3)})_{00}$ and $(a_{\text{of}}^{(3)})_{10}$.

nucl-ex↗

arXiv2022

New Constraint on the Local Relic Neutrino Background Overdensity with the First KATRIN Data Runs

We report on the direct cosmic relic neutrino background search from the first two science runs of the KATRIN experiment in 2019. Beta-decay electrons from a high-purity molecular tritium gas source are analyzed by a high-resolution MAC-E filter around the kinematic endpoint at 18.57 keV. The analysis is sensitive to a local relic neutrino overdensity of 9.7e10 (1.1e11) at a 90% (95%) confidence level. A fit of the integrated electron spectrum over a narrow interval around the kinematic endpoint accounting for relic neutrino captures in the Tritium source reveals no significant overdensity. This work improves the results obtained by the previous kinematic neutrino mass experiments at Los Alamos and Troitsk. We furthermore update the projected final sensitivity of the KATRIN experiment to <1e10 at 90% confidence level, by relying on updated operational conditions.

nucl-ex↗

arXiv2022

Improved eV-scale Sterile-Neutrino Constraints from the Second KATRIN Measurement Campaign

We present the results of the light sterile neutrino search from the second KATRIN measurement campaign in 2019. Approaching nominal activity, $3.76 \times 10^6$ tritium $β$-electrons are analyzed in an energy window extending down to $40\,$eV below the tritium endpoint at $E_0 = 18.57\,$keV. We consider the $3ν+1$ framework with three active and one sterile neutrino flavor. The analysis is sensitive to a fourth mass eigenstate $m_4^2\lesssim1600\,$eV$^2$ and active-to-sterile mixing $|U_{e4}|^2 \gtrsim 6 \times 10^{-3}$. As no sterile-neutrino signal was observed, we provide improved exclusion contours on $m_4^2$ and $|U_{e4}|^2$ at $95\,$% C.L. Our results supersede the limits from the Mainz and Troitsk experiments. Furthermore, we are able to exclude the large $Δm_{41}^2$ solutions of the reactor antineutrino and gallium anomalies to a great extent. The latter has recently been reaffirmed by the BEST collaboration and could be explained by a sterile neutrino with large mixing. While the remaining solutions at small $Δm_{41}^2$ are mostly excluded by short-baseline reactor experiments, KATRIN is the only ongoing laboratory experiment to be sensitive to relevant solutions at large $Δm_{41}^2$ through a robust spectral shape analysis.

hep-ex↗

arXiv2021

First direct neutrino-mass measurement with sub-eV sensitivity

We report the results of the second measurement campaign of the Karlsruhe Tritium Neutrino (KATRIN) experiment. KATRIN probes the effective electron anti-neutrino mass, $m_ν$, via a high-precision measurement of the tritium $β$-decay spectrum close to its endpoint at $18.6\,\mathrm{keV}$. In the second physics run presented here, the source activity was increased by a factor of 3.8 and the background was reduced by $25\,\%$ with respect to the first campaign. A sensitivity on $m_ν$ of $0.7\,\mathrm{eV/c^2}$ at $90\,\%$ confidence level (CL) was reached. This is the first sub-eV sensitivity from a direct neutrino-mass experiment. The best fit to the spectral data yields $m_ν^2 = (0.26\pm0.34)\,\mathrm{eV^4/c^4}$, resulting in an upper limit of $m_ν<0.9\,\mathrm{eV/c^2}$ ($90\,\%$ CL). By combining this result with the first neutrino mass campaign, we find an upper limit of $m_ν<0.8\,\mathrm{eV/c^2}$ ($90\,\%$ CL).

hep-ex↗

arXiv2021

Precision measurement of the electron energy-loss function in tritium and deuterium gas for the KATRIN experiment

The KATRIN experiment is designed for a direct and model-independent determination of the effective electron anti-neutrino mass via a high-precision measurement of the tritium $β$-decay endpoint region with a sensitivity on $m_ν$ of 0.2$\,$eV/c$^2$ (90% CL). For this purpose, the $β$-electrons from a high-luminosity windowless gaseous tritium source traversing an electrostatic retarding spectrometer are counted to obtain an integral spectrum around the endpoint energy of 18.6$\,$keV. A dominant systematic effect of the response of the experimental setup is the energy loss of $β$-electrons from elastic and inelastic scattering off tritium molecules within the source. We determined the \linebreak energy-loss function in-situ with a pulsed angular-selective and monoenergetic photoelectron source at various tritium-source densities. The data was recorded in integral and differential modes; the latter was achieved by using a novel time-of-flight technique. We developed a semi-empirical parametrization for the energy-loss function for the scattering of 18.6-keV electrons from hydrogen isotopologs. This model was fit to measurement data with a 95% T$_2$ gas mixture at 30$\,$K, as used in the first KATRIN neutrino mass analyses, as well as a D$_2$ gas mixture of 96% purity used in KATRIN commissioning runs. The achieved precision on the energy-loss function has abated the corresponding uncertainty of $σ(m_ν^2)<10^{-2}\,\mathrm{eV}^2$ [arXiv:2101.05253] in the KATRIN neutrino-mass measurement to a subdominant level.

physics.ins-det↗

arXiv2020

Two-Higgs-Doublet Models with a Flavored $\mathbb{Z}_2$

Two Higgs-doublet models usually consider an ad-hoc $\mathbb{Z}_2$ discrete symmetry to avoid flavor changing neutral currents. We consider a new class of two Higgs-doublet models where $\mathbb{Z}_2$ is enlarged to the symmetry group ${\cal{F}}\rtimes \mathbb{Z}_2$, i.e. an inner semi-direct product of a discrete symmetry group ${\cal{F}}$ and $\mathbb{Z}_2$. In such a scenario the symmetry constrains the Yukawa interactions but goes unnoticed by the scalar sector. In the most minimal scenario, $\mathbb{Z}_3 \rtimes \mathbb{Z}_2 = D_3$, flavor changing neutral currents mediated by scalars are absent at tree and one-loop level, while at the same time predictions to quark and lepton mixing are obtained, namely a trivial CKM matrix and a PMNS matrix (upon introduction of three heavy right-handed neutrinos) containing maximal atmospheric mixing. Small extensions allow to fully reproduce mixing parameters, including cobimaximal mixing in the lepton sector (maximal atmospheric mixing and a maximal $CP$ phase).

hep-ph↗

arXiv2011

Symmetrical Parametrizations of the Lepton Mixing Matrix

Advantages of the original symmetrical form of the parametrization of the lepton mixing matrix are discussed. It provides a conceptually more transparent description of neutrino oscillations and lepton number violating processes like neutrinoless double beta decay, clarifying the significance of Dirac and Majorana phases. It is also ideal for parametrizing scenarios with light sterile neutrinos.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2007

Inverted Mass Hierarchy from Scaling in the Neutrino Mass Matrix: Low and High Energy Phenomenology

Best-fit values of recent global analyzes of neutrino data imply large solar neutrino mixing, vanishing U_{e3} and a non-maximal atmospheric neutrino mixing angle theta_{23}. We show that these values emerge naturally by the hypothesis of "scaling" in the Majorana neutrino mass matrix, which states that the ratios of its elements are equal. It also predicts an inverted hierarchy for the neutrino masses. We point out several advantages and distinguishing tests of the scaling hypothesis compared to the L_e - L_mu - L_tau flavor symmetry, which is usually assumed to provide an understanding of the inverted hierarchy. Scenarios which have initially vanishing U_{e3} and maximal atmospheric neutrino mixing are shown to be unlikely to lead to non-maximal theta_{23} while keeping simultaneously U_{e3} zero. We find a peculiar ratio of the branching ratios mu -> e gamma and tau -> e gamma in supersymmetric seesaw frameworks, which only depends on atmospheric neutrino mixing and results in tau -> e gamma being unobservable. The consequences of the scaling hypothesis for high energy astrophysical neutrinos at neutrino telescopes are also investigated. Then we analyze a seesaw model based on the discrete symmetry D_4 times Z_2 leading to scaling in the low energy mass matrix and being capable of generating the baryon asymmetry of the Universe via leptogenesis. The relevant CP phase is identical to the low energy Majorana phase and successful leptogenesis requires an effective mass for neutrinoless double beta decay larger than 0.045 eV.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2007

U_{PMNS} = U_ell^dagger U_nu

We consider corrections to vanishing U_{e3} and maximal atmospheric neutrino mixing originating from the relation U = U_ell^dagger U_nu, where U is the PMNS mixing matrix and U_ell (U_nu) is associated with the diagonalization of the charged lepton (neutrino) mass matrix. We assume that in the limit of U_ell or U_nu being the unit matrix, one has U_{e3} = 0 and theta_{23} = pi/4, while the solar neutrino mixing angle is a free parameter. Well-known special cases of the indicated scenario are the bimaximal and tri-bimaximal mixing schemes. If U_{e3} \neq 0 and theta_{23} \neq pi/4 due to corrections from the charged leptons, |U_{e3}| can be sizable (close to the existing upper limit) and we find that the value of the solar neutrino mixing angle is linked to the magnitude of CP violation in neutrino oscillations. In the alternative case of the neutrino sector correcting U_{e3} = 0 and theta_{23} = pi/4, we obtain a generically smaller |U_{e3}| than in the first case. Now the magnitude of CP violation in neutrino oscillations is connected to the value of the atmospheric neutrino mixing angle theta_{23}. We find that both cases are in agreement with present observations. We also introduce parametrization independent "sum-rules" for the oscillation parameters.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2006

Scaling in the Neutrino Mass Matrix

In an attempt to uncover any underlying structure in the neutrino mass matrix, we discuss the possibility that the ratios of elements of its Majorana mass matrix are equal. We call this "strong scaling Ansatz" for neutrino masses and study its phenomenological implications. Of three possible independent scale invariant possibilities, only one is allowed by current data, predicting in a novel way the vanishing of U_{e3} and an inverted hierarchy with the lightest neutrino having zero mass. The Ansatz has the additional virtue that it is not affected by renormalization running. We also discuss explicit models in which the scaling Ansatz is realized.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2006

The Elements of the Neutrino Mass Matrix: Allowed Ranges and Implications of Texture Zeros

We study the range of the elements of the neutrino mass matrix m_nu in the charged lepton basis. Neutrino-less double beta decay is sensitive to the ee element of m_nu. We then analyze the phenomenological implications of single texture zeros. In particular, interesting predictions for the effective mass can be obtained, in the sense that typically only little cancellation due to the Majorana phases is expected. Some cases imply constraints on the atmospheric neutrino mixing angle.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2006

Improved Limit on theta_{13} and Implications for Neutrino Masses in Neutrino-less Double Beta Decay and Cosmology

We analyze the impact of a measurement, or of an improved bound, on theta_{13} for the determination of the effective neutrino mass in neutrino-less double beta decay and cosmology. In particular, we discuss how an improved limit on (or a specific value of) theta_{13} can influence the determination of the neutrino mass spectrum via neutrino-less double beta decay. We also discuss the interplay with improved cosmological neutrino mass searches.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2005

Theory of Neutrinos: A White Paper

During 2004, four divisions of the American Physical Society commissioned a study of neutrino physics to take stock of where the field is at the moment and where it is going in the near and far future. Several working groups looked at various aspects of this vast field. The summary was published as a main report entitled ``The Neutrino Matrix'' accompanied by short 50 page versions of the report of each working group. Theoretical research in this field has been quite extensive and touches many areas and the short 50 page report provided only a brief summary and overview of few of the important points. The theory discussion group felt that it may be of value to the community to publish the entire study as a white paper and the result is the current article. After a brief overview of the present knowledge of neutrino masses and mixing and some popular ways to probe the new physics implied by recent data, the white paper summarizes what can be learned about physics beyond the Standard Model from the various proposed neutrino experiments. It also comments on the impact of the experiments on our understanding of the origin of the matter-antimatter asymmetry of the Universe and the basic nature of neutrino interactions as well as the existence of possible additional neutrinos. Extensive references to original literature are provided.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2005

The See-Saw Mechanism, Neutrino Yukawa Couplings, LFV Decays l_i to l_j + gamma and Leptogenesis

The LFV charged lepton decays mu to e + gamma, tau to e + gamma and tau to mu + gamma and thermal leptogenesis are analysed in the MSSM with see-saw mechanism of neutrino mass generation and soft SUSY breaking with universal boundary conditions. The case of hierarchical heavy Majorana neutrino mass spectrum, M_1 << M_2 << M_3, is investigated. Leptogenesis requires M_1 > 10^9 GeV. Considering the natural range of values of the heaviest right-handed Majorana neutrino mass, M_3 > 5*10^{13} GeV, and assuming that the soft SUSY breaking universal gaugino and/or scalar masses have values in the range of few 100 GeV, we derive the combined constraints, which the existing stringent upper limit on the mu to e + gamma decay rate and the requirement of successful thermal leptogenesis impose on the neutrino Yukawa couplings, heavy Majorana neutrino masses and SUSY parameters. Results for the three possible types of light neutrino mass spectrum -- normal and inverted hierarchical and quasi-degenerate -- are obtained.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2005

Broken mu-tau Symmetry and Leptonic CP Violation

We propose that leptonic CP violation arises from a breaking of the mu-tau exchange symmetry in the neutrino mass matrix which in turn is indicated by the near maximal atmospheric neutrino mixing and the near zero θ_{13}. We find that for the case of a normal hierarchy, present data already restricts the way CP violation may appear in the neutrino mass matrix and there is an interesting correlation between the mixing angle θ_{13}, the solar mixing angle θ_{12} and the Dirac CP phase. In the inverted hierarchy only θ_{13} and the Dirac phase are linked. We also discuss the impact of this kind of CP violation on the deviation of the atmospheric mixing from its maximal value. Moreover, if corrections to mu-tau symmetry arise from the charged lepton sector, where mu-tau symmetry is known to be broken anyway, we find interesting connections between the CP-even and -odd terms as well. Our predictions are testable in the proposed long baseline neutrino experiments.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2005

Deviations from Tribimaximal Neutrino Mixing

Current neutrino data are consistent with the so-called tribimaximal mixing scenario, which predicts \sin^2 θ_{12}=1/3, zero U_{e3} and maximal θ_{23}. This implies a special form of the neutrino mass matrix. Introducing small breaking terms in this mass matrix generates deviations from the tribimaximal scheme and leads to testable correlations between the parameters. They depend on where the perturbation is located in the mass matrix. A special case of such perturbations are radiative corrections. Alternative deviations from tribimaximal mixing may stem from contributions of the charged lepton sector. If there is quark-lepton-unification and it is the CKM matrix which corrects the tribimaximal mixing scheme, then almost maximal CP violation and sizable deviation from zero U_{e3} are implied.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2005

Flavor Symmetry L_mu - L_tau and quasi-degenerate Neutrinos

Current data implies three simple forms of the neutrino mass matrix, each corresponding to the conservation of a non-standard lepton charge. While models based on L_e and L_e - L_mu - L_tau are well-known, little attention has been paid to L_mu - L_tau. A low energy mass matrix conserving L_mu - L_tau implies quasi-degenerate light neutrinos. Moreover, it is mu-tau symmetric and therefore (in contrast to L_e and L_e - L_mu - L_tau) automatically predicts maximal atmospheric neutrino mixing and zero U_{e3}. A see-saw model based on L_mu - L_tau is investigated and testable predictions for the neutrino mixing observables are given. Renormalization group running below and in between the see-saw scales is taken into account in our analysis, both numerically and analytically.

hep-ph↗