A generalized Higgs potential with two degenerate minima for a dark QCD matter scenario

Abstract

AbstractWe consider the Higgs potential in generalizations of the Standard Model. The possibility of the potential to develop two almost degenerate minima is explored. This would imply that QCD matter at two distinct sets of quark masses is relevant for astrophysics and cosmology. If in the exotic minimum the QCD matter ground state is electromagnetically neutral, dark matter may consist of QCD matter and antimatter in bubbles of the Higgs field. We predict an abundance of $$\gamma $$γ rays in the few MeV region as messengers of dark matter regions in space. In addition the ratio of dark matter to normal matter is expected to show a time dependence.