Date Thesis Awarded
4-2015
Access Type
Honors Thesis -- Access Restricted On-Campus Only
Degree Name
Bachelors of Science (BS)
Department
Physics
Advisor
Joshua Erlich
Committee Members
Carey Bagdassarian
Gina Hoatson
Abstract
In this thesis, I investigate several phenomena that affect the polarization of the cosmic microwave background (CMB). First, I examine what effects a hypothetical axion-photon coupling would have on the CMB polarization. I found that axion-photon coupling affects the polarization pattern, but alone is not enough to create B modes from E modes. I also investigate whether Faraday Rotation could rotate an E mode polarization state into a B mode, thereby mimicking a signature of primordial gravity waves.
Recommended Citation
Zoghby, Christopher G., "Production of B Modes in the CMB from Physics Beyond the Standard Model" (2015). Undergraduate Honors Theses. William & Mary. Paper 193.
https://scholarworks.wm.edu/honorstheses/193
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