Quantum field theory approach to neutrino oscillations in dark matter and implications at JUNO
Wei Chao
TL;DR
This work develops a quantum-field-theory description of neutrino oscillations in the presence of scalar ultralight dark matter, deriving the neutrino propagator in a DM background and extracting a two-flavor oscillation probability. It shows that the QFT-derived probability exhibits no extra time dependence compared to the standard QM result, though the effective mass and mixing parameters are shifted by DM couplings, with a precise mapping to the matter-affected parameters. The paper also provides phenomenological predictions for the JUNO experiment, outlining how the DM-neutrino interaction, especially the off-diagonal coupling ${\\cal G}_{12}$, could modify the solar parameters and potentially be probed via energy-resolution-folded oscillation probabilities. These results extend the understanding of neutrino-DM interactions and offer a pathway for laboratory tests of ultralight DM scenarios using upcoming neutrino oscillation data. The approach underscores the value of a QFT treatment for precision neutrino phenomenology in DM environments and invites exploration of other DM candidates in similar frameworks.
Abstract
Neutrino oscillation is a significant physical process worthy of in-depth exploration. In this paper, we investigate the matter effect of massive neutrinos in a scalar-type ultra-light dark matter and calculate the neutrino oscillation probability using the quantum field theory method. The result reveals that the neutrino oscillation probability derived from the quantum field theory approach exhibits no additional time dependence, which marks the most significant distinction from the oscillation result obtained through the quantum mechanics method. Furthermore, we discuss predictions of the Juno experiment regarding neutrino oscillation behavior in scalar-type ultra-light dark matter. This study extends the understanding of the interaction between neutrinos and dark matter, which warrants further exploration.