Constraints on the Variations of the Fundamental Couplings

Abstract

We reconsider several current bounds on the variation of the fine-structure constant in models where all gauge and Yukawa couplings vary in an interdependent manner, as would be expected in unified theories. In particular, we re-examine the bounds established by the Oklo reactor from the resonant neutron capture cross-section of 149Sm. By imposing variations in \Lambda_{QCD} and the quark masses, as dictated by unified theories, the corresponding bound on the variation of the fine-structure constant can be improved by about 2 orders of magnitude in such theories. In addition, we consider possible bounds on variations due to their effect on long lived \alpha- and \beta-decay isotopes, particularly 147Sm and 187Re. We obtain a strong constraint on \Delta \alpha / \alpha, comparable to that of Oklo but extending to a higher redshift corresponding to the age of the solar system, from the radioactive life-time of 187Re derived from meteoritic studies. We also analyze the astrophysical consequences of perturbing the decay Q values on bound state \beta-decays operating in the s-process.