Forests could serve as enormous neutrino detectors

An article on ScienceNews.org written by Emily Conover, speaks about how physicist Steven Prohira has proposed an unconventional method for detecting ultra-high-energy neutrinos by utilizing trees as natural antennas. The traditional construction of large and sensitive detectors for such subatomic particles poses significant challenges, leading Prohira to explore a novel approach. He suggests that trees could act as antennas capable of picking up radio waves produced during specific interactions with subatomic particles.

The inspiration for this idea comes from the inventive strategies employed by high-energy neutrino physicists, as demonstrated in projects like the IceCube Neutrino Observatory, which uses a cubic kilometer of Antarctic ice. Prohira’s proposal focuses on detecting tau neutrinos, a unique variety that, when passing through the Earth, can generate tau leptons. If these leptons escape into Earth’s atmosphere, their decay produces radio waves.

While this concept offers a potentially natural and cost-effective solution, it raises several critical questions. Researchers need to explore how trees perform with very high-frequency radio waves, the operational range for neutrino detectors. Additionally, the response of trees to the polarization of radio waves and the impact of foliage, especially in deciduous forests undergoing seasonal changes, must be thoroughly investigated.

Physicist Eric Oberla from the University of Chicago emphasizes the need for addressing uncertainties and challenges associated with replacing manufactured antennas with trees. Furthermore, any potential environmental impact on the forest must be carefully considered, emphasizing the importance of building such a detector in harmony with nature.

In summary, Prohira’s proposal to use trees as natural antennas for neutrino detection is an intriguing concept, offering a potential alternative to traditional detector construction. However, numerous scientific and practical challenges require thorough exploration and research to assess feasibility and potential benefits.