In this paper a mechanistic model for dark energy is proposed by introducing a four dimensional spatial medium, with time as an independent variable. The electromagnetic force field and resulting stress field, and gravitational stress field are assumed to be present in the medium. The mechanical model of the medium and the interaction mechanism between medium and matter are modeled to  satisfy the field behavior described by quantum electrodynamics and space-time geometry described by relativity theory. To define the mechanical properties of the medium, the eigen states used to describe an electromagnetic field are assumed to have a physical basis, with mass and stiffness associated with the eigen states. The four dimensional medium is assumed to be elastic and orthotropic, with isotropic properties along space, and a smaller stiffness along the spatial axis corresponding to time axis in space-time. Mechanical models using the 4+1 dimensional medium is then developed to explain Lorentz transformation, gravitation and behavior in electromagnetic fields. A local realistic model for spin of electrons in a atom is then discussed using the proposed framework. The mechanistic model for large and small scale interactions is utilized to propose release of strain energy in medium as the mechanism to explain dark energy. At big bang the medium is assumed to be in a state of gravitational stress from a massive black hole, and the transient state due to the release of strain energy after big bang is considered as the source of dark energy.  The features of Lambda Cold Dark Matter (ΛCDM) model and mechanism for big bang are then explained using this definition of dark energy.

After my paper was published, a group of high school students from Delhi Public School, Bengaluru, reached out for guidance on submitting a proposal to CERN’s “Beamline for Schools” program. Their project would use the accelerator to run controlled heavy‑ion collisions and study how the resulting fields couple and interact. In practical terms, they want to measure observables such as cross sections and particle yields, then compare those results with predictions from quantum field theory (QFT), renormalization‑group (RG) flow, and magnetic‑field‑dependent beta functions.

The students had already developed a surprisingly mature proposal, and when they asked me to serve as their coach, I agreed. Personally, I also saw it as a chance to test the energy‑dependent behavior of the proposed elastic medium and, if the proposal is accepted, to make real progress toward quantifying the model.

Although the proposal was not selected for the final round, the students did a wonderful job. I sincerely hope this outcome does not discourage them, but instead inspires them to continue pursuing their interest in physics. In addition, I have been quite busy with work and have not yet had the opportunity to develop a few ideas related to the following topics:

1.      Investigate the stiffness of space-time using Prof. McDonald’s study as a guide.

2.      Investigate the chirality of electrons, building on the work of the Quantum Bicycle Society.