118583666
Evolution of local and global monopole networks
We present an extension of the velocity-dependent one-scale model for cosmic string evolution, which is suitable for describing the evolution of local and global monopole networks. We discuss the key dynamical features that need to be accounted for, in particular, the fact that the driving force is due to the other monopoles (rather than being due to local curvature as in the case of extended objects) and new forms of energy-loss terms due to monopole-antimonopole capture and annihilation. For the case of local monopoles we recover and generalize the results of Preskill, suggesting that the scaling law for the monopole correlation length is very sensitive to the annihilation rate. On the other hand, for global monopoles the long-range forces generically lead to linear scaling (just like in the case of local cosmic strings). In this case we also find good qualitative agreement between our results and the numerical simulations of Bennett and Rhie and Yamaguchi, although future high-resolution simulations will be needed for quantitative comparisons.
204936864
New constraints on varying alpha
I briefly present some current theoretical motivations for time or space variations of the fundamental constants of nature and review current key observational results. I focus on the fine-structure constant, and particularly on measurements using quasars and the cosmic microwave background. I also compare various observational results to the simplest model-building expectations.
117273179
EVOLUTION OF SUPERCONDUCTING STRINGS
Cosmic strings can in some circumstances behave as’ superconducting wires’ carrying large currents and charges [1, 2]. Here we describe a generalization of the quantitative string evolution model of the present authors [3, 4] to the evolution of currents on long strings. We will use fundamental units in which ħ = c = kB = 1, and consequently G = m-2Pl.
55417521
Evolution of semilocal string networks: large-scale properties
We report on a detailed numerical study of the evolution of semilocal string networks, based on the largest and most accurate field theory simulations of these objects to date. We focus on the large-scale network properties, confirming earlier indications (coming from smaller simulations) that linear scaling is the attractor solution for the entire parameter space of initial conditions that we are able to probe. We also provide a brief comparison of our numerical results with the predictions of a previously developed one-scale model for the overall evolution of these networks. Two subsequent papers will discuss in more detail the analytic modeling of the semilocal segment populations as well as optimized numerical diagnostics.
27273507
Cosmology with varying constants.
The idea of possible time or space variations of the 'fundamental' constants of nature, although not new, is only now beginning to be actively considered by large numbers of researchers in the particle physics, cosmology and astrophysics communities. This revival is mostly due to the claims of possible detection of such variations, in various different contexts and by several groups. I present the current theoretical motivations and expectations for such variations, review the current observational status and discuss the impact of a possible confirmation of these results in our views of cosmology and physics as a whole.
118583666
Evolution of local and global monopole networks
We present an extension of the velocity-dependent one-scale model for cosmic string evolution, which is suitable for describing the evolution of local and global monopole networks. We discuss the key dynamical features that need to be accounted for, in particular, the fact that the driving force is due to the other monopoles (rather than being due to local curvature as in the case of extended objects) and new forms of energy-loss terms due to monopole-antimonopole capture and annihilation. For the case of local monopoles we recover and generalize the results of Preskill, suggesting that the scaling law for the monopole correlation length is very sensitive to the annihilation rate. On the other hand, for global monopoles the long-range forces generically lead to linear scaling (just like in the case of local cosmic strings). In this case we also find good qualitative agreement between our results and the numerical simulations of Bennett and Rhie and Yamaguchi, although future high-resolution simulations will be needed for quantitative comparisons.
55675624
THE RF POWER SOURCE FOR THE HIGH BETA ELLIPTICAL CAVITIES OF THE ESS LINAC
The European Spallation Source (ESS) is an intergovernmental project building amultidisciplinary research laboratory based upon the worlds most powerful neutron source. The main facility will be built in Lund, Sweden. Construction is expected to start around 2013 and the first neutrons will be produced in 2019. The ESS linac will deliver 5 MW of power to the target at 2.5 GeV, with a nominal current of 50 mA. The 120 high beta elliptical cavities, which operate at a frequency of 704 MHz and accelerate protons from 600 MeV to 2.5 GeV, account for more than half of the total number of RF cavities in the ESS linac and three quarters of the total beam power needed. Because of the large number of RF power sources and the high power level needed, all the design and development efforts for the RF power source have so far been focused on this part of the accelerator. The design and development status of the RF power source is reported in this paper with emphasis on reliability, maintainability, safety, power efficiency, investment cost and production capacity. (Less)