Supersymmetry With Prejudice: Fitting the Wrong Model to LHC Data

Abstract

We critically examine interpretations of hypothetical supersymmetric LHC signals, fitting to alternative wrong models of supersymmetry breaking. The signals we consider are some of the most constraining on the sparticle spectrum: invariant mass distributions with edges and end-points from the golden cascade decay chain \tilde{q}_L -> q χ_2^0 (-> \tilde{l}^{\pm} l^{\mp} q) -> χ_1^0 l^+ l^- q. We assume a CMSSM point to be the `correct' one, and fit the signals instead to minimal gauge mediated supersymmetry breaking models (mGMSB) with a neutralino quasi-stable lightest supersymmetric particle, minimal anomaly mediation (mAMSB) and large volume string compactification models (LVS). mAMSB and LVS can be unambiguously discriminated against the CMSSM for the parameter point assumed and 1 inverse femtobarn of LHC data at 14 TeV. However, mGMSB would not be discriminated on the basis of the kinematic end-points alone, and would require further, more detailed investigation. The best-fit points of mGMSB and CMSSM look remarkably similar, making experimental discrimination at the LHC appear unlikely by any means.

24 pages, 6 figures, v4: new discussion, clarification, 1 plot added

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• Bayesian analysis and naturalness of (Next-to-)Minimal Supersymmetric Models
• Diagnosis of Supersymmetry Breaking Mediation Schemes by Mass Reconstruction at the LHC
• Supersymmetric SU(5) Grand Unification for a Post Higgs Boson Era
• Investigating Multiple Solutions in the Constrained Minimal Supersymmetric Standard Model
• Using rates to measure mixed modulus-anomaly mediated supersymmetry breaking at the LHC