4 research outputs found
Charges on Strange Quark Nuggets in Space
Since Witten's seminal 1984 paper on the subject, searches for evidence of
strange quark nuggets (SQNs) have proven unsuccessful. In the absence of
experimental evidence ruling out SQNs, the validity of theories introducing
mechanisms that increase their stability should continue to be tested. To
stimulate electromagnetic SQN searches, particularly space searches, we
estimate the net charge that would develop on an SQN in space exposed to
various radiation baths (and showers) capable of liberating their less strongly
bound electrons, taking into account recombination with ambient electrons. We
consider, in particular, the cosmic background radiation, radiation from the
sun, and diffuse galactic and extragalactic -ray backgrounds. A
possible dramatic signal of SQNs in explosive astrophysical events is noted.Comment: CitationS added, new subsection added, more discussion, same
numerical result