quarkidest

Quarkidest is a hypothetical subatomic object proposed in certain beyond-Standard Model theories that extend strong interaction dynamics with a new confining gauge sector. The term is used to describe a color-singlet bound state arising from the combination of quarks under an additional confining interaction, or from a bound state of new exotic constituents bound by that interaction. In these models, quarkidest states are typically envisioned as heavy composites whose properties depend on the specifics of the new gauge group, its coupling, and the spectrum of bound states.

Predicted properties of quarkidest states are highly model dependent. They are often conceived as having masses in the GeV to tens-of-GeV range or higher, and as being colorless with electric charges that are model contingent. Lifetimes can vary from prompt decays to cosmologically long-lived, depending on allowed decay channels and whether couplings to Standard Model particles are suppressed. Their interactions with ordinary matter are expected to be weak enough to complicate direct detection, while potentially producing distinctive signatures in high-energy collisions or astrophysical observations.

Experimental status remains uncertain. There is no confirmed observation of a quarkidest to date. Searches for exotic hadrons and hidden-sector states at colliders set constraints on production rates and lifetimes, but no definitive signal has emerged. Ongoing theoretical work, including lattice simulations and phenomenological modeling, continues to map the possible spectra, stability conditions, and detection prospects for such states.

If realized, quarkidest states could illuminate hidden-sector dynamics, influence models of dark matter, or provide a testing ground for nonperturbative phenomena in extended gauge theories.