Metastability of the Higgs field

In summary, the current theory surrounding the higgs field suggests that it may be metastable and could potentially drop to a lower energy level, causing vacuum decay and the destruction of the universe. Predicting this event is difficult and there is currently no data available to support it. It is based on an extrapolation of the incomplete Standard Model.
  • #1
ryan liberty
5
1
One current theory surrounding the higgs field is that it might be metastable, as in it acts stable but could (through quantum tunneling) drop it's energy level to become truly stable. This drop in energy would release all of the potential energy contained in the field. This is of course vacuum decay, which would destroy the universe as we know it. How do we predict this? We probably can't, however help would be appreciated.
 
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  • #2
ryan liberty said:
How do we predict this?
What do you mean with this? Do you mean when it will happen or do you mean how we predict than it can occur. The answers are widely different.
 
  • #3
Orodruin said:
What do you mean with this? Do you mean when it will happen or do you mean how we predict than it can occur. The answers are widely different.
I mean how do we know that it CAN happen, I haven't found data on it.
 
  • #4
ryan liberty said:
I mean how do we know that it CAN happen, I haven't found data on it.
This is not knowable. It is an extrapolation of the current Standard Model - which is also known to be incomplete.
 

FAQ: Metastability of the Higgs field

What is the Higgs field?

The Higgs field is a fundamental physical field that permeates the entire universe and gives particles their mass. It is a crucial component of the Standard Model of particle physics.

What is metastability of the Higgs field?

Metastability of the Higgs field refers to the state of the Higgs field in which it is not at its lowest energy state, but also not at its highest energy state. This means that the Higgs field could potentially decay to a lower energy state, causing a change in the fundamental laws of physics.

Why is the metastability of the Higgs field important?

The metastability of the Higgs field is important because it could potentially lead to a catastrophic event known as a vacuum decay. If the Higgs field were to decay to its lowest energy state, it could trigger a chain reaction that would change the fundamental laws of physics, possibly leading to the destruction of the universe.

How do scientists study the metastability of the Higgs field?

Scientists study the metastability of the Higgs field through experiments at large particle accelerators, such as the Large Hadron Collider. They also use mathematical models and simulations to understand the behavior of the Higgs field and its potential for decay.

Is the metastability of the Higgs field a cause for concern?

While the possibility of a vacuum decay is a theoretical concern, there is currently no evidence to suggest that it will happen. Scientists continue to study the Higgs field and its properties to better understand the potential risks and implications of its metastability.

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