MSU researchers help Fermilab’s Muon g-2 experiment observe unexpected behavior from fundamental particles Michigan State University researchers have helped catch particles called muons behaving in a way that’s not predicted by the Standard Model of particle physics — the best theory that scientists have for explaining the universe’s fundamental particles and forces.
This deviation hints that there’s new physics yet to explore, such as undiscovered particles or forces.
The Muon g-2 magnet ring sits in its detector hall amidst electronics racks and other equipment. The experiment operates at negative 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Photo courtesy of Fermilab. “The first results from an experiment at Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory show strong evidence that our understanding of the subatomic world is incomplete,” said Martin Berz, a professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy in MSU’s College of Natural Science. Fermilab, which is located near Chicago, is a U.S. Department of Energy Office of Science laboratory.