Dark Matter as a Solution to Muonic Puzzles

Abstract

We propose a simple model in which dark matter particle exchanges mediate a new quantum force between muons and nucleons, resolving the proton charge radius puzzle. At the same time, the discrepancy between the measured anomalous magnetic moment of the muon and the Standard Model prediction can be accommodated, and thermal relic abundance of the dark matter candidate is consistent with observations. The dark matter particle mass is in the MeV range. We show that the model is consistent with a variety of experimental and observational constraints.

Comments: 7 pages, 7 figures. Version 2: updated constraints, new benchmark point, conclusions unchanged