Geant4 Simulations for the Radon Electric Dipole Moment Search at TRIUMF

ORAL

Abstract

The existence of a permanent electric dipole moment (EDM) requires the violation of time-reversal symmetry (T) or, equivalently, the violation of charge conjugation C and parity P (CP). Although no particle EDM has yet been found, current theories beyond the Standard Model, e.g. multiple-Higgs theories, left-right symmetry, and supersymmetry, predict EDMs within current experimental reach. In fact, present limits on the EDMs of the neutron, electron and $^{199}$Hg atom have significantly reduced the parameter spaces of these models. The measurement of a non-zero EDM would be a direct measurement of the violation of time-reversal symmetry, and would represent a clear signal of new physics beyond the Standard Model. Recent theoretical calculations predict large enhancements in the atomic EDMs for atoms with octupole-deformed nuclei, making odd-A Rn isotopes prime candidates for the EDM search. The Geant4 simulations presented here are essential for the development towards an EDM measurement. They provide an accurate description of $\gamma$-ray scattering and backgrounds in the experimental apparatus, and are being used to study the overall sensitivity of the RnEDM experiment at TRIUMF in Vancouver, B.C.

Authors

  • Evan Rand

    The University of Guelph

  • J.C. Bangay

    The University of Guelph, U. Guelph

  • L. Bianco

    The University of Guelph, U. Guelph

  • Ryan Dunlop

    The University of Guelph

  • Paul Finlay

    The University of Guelph

  • P.E. Garrett

    The University of Guelph, U. Guelph

  • K.G. Leach

    University of Guelph, The University of Guelph, U. Guelph

  • A.A. Phillips

    The University of Guelph, U. Guelph

  • Carl Svensson

    The University of Guelph

  • Chandana Sumithrarachchi

    The University of Guelph

  • James Wong

    The University of Guelph