What if the LSND effect gets a considerably smaller amplitude?

Abstract

The possibility is considered that the verdict of the ongoing MiniBooNE neutrino experiment will favor neither of the contesting sides, stating in fact that the LSND effect with the original oscillation amplitude is not confirmed, but a new LSND effect with a considerably smaller amplitude is found (or, at least, strongly suggested). Then, in the framework of neutrino oscillations, the presence in Nature of hypothetical light sterile neutrinos (mixing with three active neutrinos with a weak strength) will be unambiguously suggested by post-MiniBooNE neutrino data (unless the credible CPT invariance is seriously violated). In the new situation, the 3+1 neutrino models may work all right. The same is true also for simple 3+2 neutrino models. For illustration of this potential developement, the simplest 3+2 model is briefly discussed.