Why More W^+/- than Z^0 in Proton-Antiproton Collisions?

In summary, the reason for the higher production of W^+/- bosons compared to Z^0 bosons in proton-antiproton collisions is due to the difference in their vector couplings to quarks. Additionally, the fact that the Z boson is heavier also contributes to its lower production rate. Despite PDFs not being enough to fully explain this phenomenon, it is important to consider the different vertices involved and the possibility of photon decay into W bosons.
  • #1
evilcman
41
2
Can someone give me a qualitative/handwaving argument of
why much more W^+/- boson are produced in proton-antiproton
collisions compared to Z^0 bosons?

PDFs are not enough to explain this I believe, since we will have more
u ubar pairs in the collision than u dbar...

Also if I remember correctly the coupling for the Z-2fermion
vertex is higher with a factor of 1/sin(theta_W). Well the vertices
are kinda different so this is not so simple.

Is there an easy way to guess this or one has to do a full LO calculation
or something?
 
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  • #2
First thought, don't know if its the dominant effect.

Z can be produced in the first vertex, but all such vertices can also produce a photon. The photon couples to W's but not to Z and therefore the photon can decay into a pair of W's.

This means that W's can be produced both by u ubar and by u dbar, while Z only get produced by u ubar collisions.

cheers!
 
  • #3
1) The Z is heavier.

2) The Z's vector coupling to quarks is less than the W's.
 

1. Why are there more W^+/- particles than Z^0 in proton-antiproton collisions?

This is due to the difference in the masses of the two particles. The W^+/- particles have a lower mass compared to the Z^0, making them more likely to be produced in collisions.

2. How do scientists determine the number of W^+/- and Z^0 particles produced in proton-antiproton collisions?

Scientists use detectors to measure the energy and momentum of particles produced in collisions. By analyzing this data, they can determine the number of W^+/- and Z^0 particles produced.

3. Is there a relationship between the energy of the collision and the number of W^+/- and Z^0 particles produced?

Yes, there is a direct relationship between the energy of the collision and the number of particles produced. Higher collision energies result in more W^+/- and Z^0 particles being produced.

4. Can W^+/- and Z^0 particles be created in other types of collisions?

Yes, these particles can be created in other types of collisions, such as electron-positron collisions. However, the energy and conditions required for their production may vary.

5. What is the significance of studying W^+/- and Z^0 particles in proton-antiproton collisions?

Studying these particles can provide insights into the fundamental forces and interactions in the universe. It also helps scientists understand the properties of matter and the role of symmetry in particle physics.

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