Researchers at RIKEN propose that gravitational waves generated by merging neutron stars may provide insights into the existence of ultra-dense quark-gluon matter, which could be similar to the primordial quark soup from the early Universe. By simulating these mergers and studying the resultant gravitational-wave signals, they predict that next-generation detectors, expected within the next decade, could confirm this hypothesis. The extreme pressures during neutron-star mergers could allow for a transformation of matter—potentially turning protons and neutrons into their constituent quarks and gluons.
The density at the core of neutron stars is extraordinarily high, surpassing that of atomic nuclei and nearing the threshold for black hole formation. Within this dense environment, researchers speculate that quark phases may appear, although this remains unverified. By analyzing the frequency of gravitational waves produced during these mergers, scientists aim to determine whether quark phases exist and how transitions might occur. Current gravitational-wave detectors are unable to achieve this, but advanced detectors in the near future could help uncover these significant cosmic mysteries. The findings could deepen our understanding of fundamental matter and the conditions resembling those present in the Universe’s infancy.
