The Muon g-2 Experiment: A Precision Test of the Standard Model and Search for New Physics

The Fermilab muon g-2 experiment recently released its first high precision measurement of the magnetic moment anomaly of the muon. Muons are like electrons, but heavier and short-lived. The magnetic moment anomaly quantifies the amount by which the g-factor of the muon differs from two, a_μ=(g_μ-2)/2. It's of interest because it can be predicted with impressive, sub-ppm precision through the techniques of quantum field theory. This prediction requires the careful consideration of quantum corrections that arise due the interactions of the muon with all the known fundamental particles of nature such as electrons, photons, W-bosons, etc. Comparison of experimental results with theoretical predictions then serves as a powerful test of the completeness of the Standard Model of nature. There is a long-standing discrepancy between the measured and predicted values of the muon magnetic momnent anomaly that might indicate the need for new physics. The concepts behind the Fermilab experiment and the many challenges it faces will be presented, along with the comparison with theory and future prospects.