Dr. Geralyn "Sam" Zeller

Los Alamos National Laboratory

Monday, November 17, 2008

4:00 p.m.

Cardwell 102

Neutrinos Do More Than Just Oscillate

The neutrino is one of nature's smallest and most elusive particles. For more than 50 years, they have surprised us: not only by their mere presence, but also by the recent revelation that these ghostlike particles can oscillate from one type to another. This stunning discovery has opened up a host of new questions about neutrinos and their properties; questions which we are currently in a global race to answer. The results hinge upon knowledge of neutrino interaction cross sections which are poorly known and have not been updated for decades. With the advent of intense man-made neutrino beams, this situation is quickly changing. Detailed studies of low energy neutrino interactions are now being made and revealing surprises of their own. Recent results  from experiments such as K2K, MiniBooNE, and SciBooNE will be presented, along with a projection  for what the future holds. If history is any indication, we are in store for an exciting ride.