Is nonstandard interaction a solution to the three neutrino tensions?

Abstract

In this work we present a scenario in which a nonstandard interaction in neutrino propagation can explain the three major tensions in the neutrino oscillation data at present. These tensions are: (i) a non-zero best-fit value of the non-standard oscillation parameters in the the global analysis of the solar and KamLAND data which rules out the standard oscillation scenario at $90\%$ C.L, (ii) the measurement of the non-maximal value of $θ_{23}$ by NO$ν$A which excludes the maximal mixing at $2.5 σ$ C.L. and (iii) a discrepancy in the $θ_{13}$ measurement by T2K which has a tension with the reactor best-fit value of $\sin^2θ_{13}=0.021$ at $90\%$ C.L. Our results show that all these three above mentioned anomalies can be explained if one assumes the existence of the non-standard interactions in neutrino propagation with $θ_{23}=45^\circ$ and $\sin^2θ_{13}=0.021$ in the case of normal hierarchy. In our scenario the phase of $ε_{eτ}$ is zero and the most favorable value of the Dirac CP phase is approximately $255^\circ$.

4 pages, 2 figures, 2 tables