CoGeNT interpretations

Abstract

Recently, the CoGeNT experiment has reported events in excess of expected background. We analyze dark matter scenarios which can potentially explain this signal. Under the standard case of spin independent scattering with equal couplings to protons and neutrons, we find significant tensions with existing constraints. Consistency with these limits is possible if a large fraction of the putative signal events is coming from an additional source of experimental background. In this case, dark matter recoils cannot be said to explain the excess, but are consistent with it. We also investigate modifications to dark matter scattering that can evade the null experiments. In particular, we explore generalized spin independent couplings to protons and neutrons, spin dependent couplings, momentum dependent scattering, and inelastic interactions. We find that some of these generalizations can explain most of the CoGeNT events without violation of other constraints. Generalized couplings with some momentum dependence, allows further consistency with the DAMA modulation signal, realizing a scenario where both CoGeNT and DAMA signals are coming from dark matter. A model with dark matter interacting and annihilating into a new light boson can realize most of the scenarios considered.

Gamma ray line constraints on effective theories of dark matter

“…In recent years, several have reported anomalous results that are consistent with a light dark matter particle with mass of order 10 GeV [1][2][3] (however, see [4][5][6] as well), leading to a surge of interest in the possibility of light dark matter [7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15]. Another experimental probe which is particularly effective for light dark matter is to look for signals of dark matter production at colliders.…”

Complex scalar dark mattervis-à-visCoGeNT, DAMA/LIBRA, and XENON100

“…There have been several model interpretations of the CoGeNT data in terms of a light DM particle [24][25][26][27][28]. Asymmetric DM [29][30][31][32][33][34][35] connects the DM relic density to the density of baryons, yielding similar DM and baryon masses.…”

Exothermic double-disk dark matter

“…However consistent interpretations of CDMS-Si and CRESST-II excesses may be possible. Variations of the proton and neutron couplings [16][17][18][19][20] are also considered in the context of ExoDDDM and new high-mass explanations of the CDMS-Si events are found where M 80 GeV, in consistency with other bounds. In Sec.…”