Higgs Boson and confidence levels

In summary, the current state of things is that there are signals for the Higgs in multiple search channels and detectors, but more data is still needed for a 5-sigma confidence level. However, it is not very likely that the Higgs does not exist. There is also evidence that the Higgs may not have all the correct properties for a Standard Model Higgs, but it is still close. Overall, the general consensus is that this is the Higgs at approximately 125 GeV.
  • #1
SeventhSigma
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What is the current state of things? Are they fairly confident that the Higgs exist despite more data being needed for the 5-sigma confidence level? Could it still (realistically) turn out to not exist?
 
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  • #2
It could still turn out not to exist, yes, but it is not very likely in my opinion. They are seeing signals (albeit very small) in multiple search channels in multiple detectors in the same place. It would be a pretty large coincidence for this to occur under the background-only model, or a really unfortunate and strange screwup in the background modelling.

It may turn out to not quite have the correct properties for a Standard Model Higgs, in fact there is already minor evidence that some of the branching ratios are not quite right (but this could easily go away with more data). So I don't know if I would bet on it being exactly Standard Model like, but it seems close, and I would stick my money on them having something rather than nothing.
 
  • #3
kurros said:
or a really unfortunate and strange screwup in the background modelling.
While this might be true for channels without direct mass measurements, the two-photon channel should not be affected by this. This plot from ATLAS shows some peak-like structure which is already visible by eye.
SeventhSigma said:
Are they fairly confident [...]
If you ask the scientists directly involved in the seach, they will tell you something about "it is too early to say this". But the usual opinion seems to be that this is the Higgs at ~125 GeV.
 

FAQ: Higgs Boson and confidence levels

What is the Higgs Boson?

The Higgs Boson is a subatomic particle that was first theorized in the 1960s by physicist Peter Higgs. It is believed to be responsible for giving other particles their mass and is a crucial part of the Standard Model of particle physics.

How was the Higgs Boson discovered?

The Higgs Boson was discovered in 2012 by the ATLAS and CMS experiments at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) in Switzerland. Scientists used high-energy proton collisions to produce and detect the particle.

What are confidence levels in relation to the Higgs Boson?

Confidence levels are a statistical measure used to determine the likelihood that a particular result is due to chance. In the case of the Higgs Boson, confidence levels are used to determine the certainty of its discovery and to rule out any other possible explanations.

Why is the discovery of the Higgs Boson important?

The discovery of the Higgs Boson is important because it confirms the existence of the Higgs field, which is essential for our understanding of how particles acquire mass. It also helps to validate the Standard Model of particle physics and provides a deeper understanding of the fundamental building blocks of the universe.

What are the implications of the Higgs Boson discovery?

The discovery of the Higgs Boson has significant implications for both theoretical physics and practical applications. It allows us to better understand the origins of mass and the fundamental forces that govern the universe. It also has potential applications in fields such as medicine and technology, as well as furthering our understanding of the Big Bang and the beginnings of the universe.

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