Particles in the Dark Universe: A Student’s Guide to Particle Physics and Cosmology

This second edition of Particles in the Dark Universe has been substantially enhanced with several new chapters that delve into crucial aspects of particle physics in the Universe. These additions encompass the role of primordial black holes in the early universe, tracing their formation to decay, unification theories, a comprehensive historical overview of cosmological models, an extensive examination of the physics of the graviton, and an educational exploration of gravitational phenomena such as Unruh-type or Hawking radiation. Additionally, this edition incorporates 30 new exercises and provides a comprehensive presentation of inflationary models, along with a pedagogical insight into the mechanism of baryogenesis.

Structured in a logical sequence, this book offers a thorough and instructional exploration of particle physics within the early universe. It initiates by elucidating the thermal history of the universe, delving into pivotal concepts like Big Bang nucleosynthesis, the cosmic microwave background (CMB), and inflation. Subsequently, it meticulously addresses both direct and indirect detection methods of dark matter, followed by an in-depth analysis of neutrino physics. The book further scrutinizes potential candidates for dark matter and their interactions.

Designed for theoretical physicists engaged in particle physics within the universe, dark matter detection, astrophysical constraints, and those interested in models of inflation or reheating, this book also caters to astrophysicists involved in quantum field theory computations. It encompasses all essential elements required for computing various physical processes, providing mathematical tables, necessary thermodynamic functions for the early universe, and Feynman rules. Consequently, this book serves as an intersecting point between astrophysics, particle physics, and cosmology.

Yann Mambrini serves as a Research Director at the French CNRS (Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique) in the Irene Joliot Curie Laboratory at the University of Paris-Saclay. His research primarily centers on particle physics and fundamental interactions, spanning from supergravity to grand unified theories. He focusses on cosmological implications, especially within the study of dark matter. Recognized for his contributions, Mambrini received the Prix d’Excellence Scientifique from the National Research Council in 2010, 2014, and 2018. Currently, he lectures at the Ecole Normale Supérieure. Apart from his academic pursuits, he is deeply intrigued by the concept of time, ranging from its measurement to its fundamental nature, and the historical evolution of ideas in physics. He has authored several well-received French books on these subjects: Histoires de Temps (Ellipses, 2019), Le Siècle des révolutions Scientifiques (Ellipses, 2020), Newton à la Plage (Dunod, 2021; also translated into Italian in 2022 as Una Giornata con Newton by Espress), and La Nouvelle Physique (Albin Michel, 2024). Alongside his scholarly endeavors, Mambrini shares his passion for magic, weaving illusions into discussions about time and the mysteries of the universe in shows tailored for the general public.