Pion Decay into Gamma rays angle

In summary, the conversation is about a homework question regarding a neutral pion decaying into two gamma rays with equal velocity and angle to the normal. The question asks to prove the equation v= cos theta. The speaker is confused about how to use trigonometry in this scenario, but then realizes that the conservation of momentum explains why the horizontal components of the velocities must be equal.
  • #1
cooev769
114
0
So i have a question regarding a homework question I'm working on which suggest a neutral pion traveling with velocity v decays into two gamma rays of equal theta to the normal and they of course have velocity c. It then asks to prove that

v= cos theta

Which kind of confuses me. I mean if we assume that the gamma rays travel off at an angle and the distance they travel in time t is at a right angle to the distance the pion would have traveled at velocity v, we can form a right handed triangle with adjacent length vt and hypotenuse ct, but how can we just assume that you can just go north of vt and it will find ct right at the end of the hypotenuse and hence use this trigonometric rule.

Thanks.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Oh wait is it due to conservation of momentum so the vertical components of the c's must cancel and therefore the horizontal components must be the same length? Cheers.
 
  • #3
Oh wait is it due to conservation of momentum so the vertical components of the c's must cancel and therefore the horizontal components must be the same length? Cheers.
Exactly.
 

1. What is Pion Decay into Gamma rays angle?

Pion Decay into Gamma rays angle refers to the angle at which a pion particle decays into gamma rays, which are high energy photons. This angle is typically measured in units of degrees or radians.

2. How is the Pion Decay into Gamma rays angle determined?

The Pion Decay into Gamma rays angle is determined through experimental measurements using particle accelerators and detectors. By analyzing the trajectory and energy of the pion and gamma rays, the angle of decay can be calculated.

3. What factors affect the Pion Decay into Gamma rays angle?

The Pion Decay into Gamma rays angle is influenced by several factors, including the energy and momentum of the pion, the type of pion (charged or neutral), and the presence of other particles or fields that may interact with the decay process.

4. Why is the Pion Decay into Gamma rays angle important in particle physics?

The Pion Decay into Gamma rays angle is important in particle physics because it provides valuable information about the fundamental interactions and properties of subatomic particles. It can also help researchers validate and refine theoretical models and predictions.

5. Can the Pion Decay into Gamma rays angle be manipulated or controlled?

No, the Pion Decay into Gamma rays angle is a natural process and cannot be manipulated or controlled. It is governed by the laws of physics and is consistent across different experiments and conditions.

Similar threads

  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
12
Views
1K
  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
13
Views
3K
  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
10
Views
3K
  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
2
Views
6K
  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • Sci-Fi Writing and World Building
Replies
6
Views
633
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
414
  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
5
Views
1K
Back
Top