Hidden sector axions: physics and cosmology
Abstract
Description
Embedding hidden sector supergravity models in the framework of string theory leads to the appearance of axion-like degrees of freedom. Among them is the model independent axion of heterotic string theory. It has a decay constant of order of the Planck scale and could play the role of a quintessence field. In models allowing for the required $μ$ term in the TeV range, the hidden sector dynamics leads to a vacuum energy of $(0.003 {\rm eV})^4$ via a multiple see-saw effect. A solution to the strong CP-problem is provided by an additional hidden sector pseudoscalar with properties that make it an acceptable candidate for cold dark matter of the universe.
Contribution to the Proceedings of SUGRA20, International Conference 20 Years of SUGRA and Search for SUSY and Unification, Northeastern University, Boston, USA, March 2003
Contribution to the Proceedings of SUGRA20, International Conference 20 Years of SUGRA and Search for SUSY and Unification, Northeastern University, Boston, USA, March 2003