Particle physics question: beam energy

In summary, the conversation discusses the formation of tertiary neutrino and muon beams using pion decays from a high intensity, high energy secondary pion beam. The secondary pion beam has a momentum of 100 GeV/c and the neutrinos are assumed to have a mass of a few eV. The topic of discussion includes the angular confinement of the muons in the lab and the available range of muon energies. The approach to finding the angle of the muon momentum and energy is also mentioned.
  • #1
quark.antiquark
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Homework Statement


Tertiary neutrino and muon beams can be formed using pion -> muon + neutrino decays from a high intensity, high energy secondary pion beam. Consider a secondary pion beam of 100 GeV/c momentum and assume that the neutrinos have a mass of a few eV. Within what angular cone are the muons confined in the lab? What is the range of muon energies available in the lab?

Homework Equations


(None provided)

The Attempt at a Solution


I'm really not sure how to approach this one. The text gives a formula for the angular deflection of secondary beams in terms of the momentum of the original beam and the dimensions and potential of the separator. The problem is, we're not given any of this information. Is there another method to find the angle?
 
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  • #2
You can take the neutrino as massless.
Find the muon momentum and energy in the center of mass system.
Take the angle for the muon momentum at 90 degrees to the pion flight direction.
Lorentz transform the muon momentum.
 

1. What is the purpose of adjusting the beam energy in particle physics experiments?

The beam energy is adjusted in particle physics experiments in order to control the speed and energy of the particles being collided. This allows scientists to study the interactions between particles at different energy levels, providing valuable insights into the fundamental forces and particles that make up our universe.

2. How is the beam energy measured in particle accelerators?

The beam energy in particle accelerators is measured using a device called a synchrotron. This device uses magnetic fields to bend the path of the particles and measure their energy based on the strength of the magnetic field required to keep them on their desired trajectory.

3. Can the beam energy be too high or too low for a particle physics experiment?

Yes, the beam energy must be carefully controlled and optimized for each experiment. If the energy is too low, the particles may not have enough energy to produce the desired collisions. If the energy is too high, it can result in unwanted background noise and make it difficult to isolate the desired interactions.

4. How does the beam energy affect the results of a particle physics experiment?

The beam energy has a significant impact on the results of a particle physics experiment. It determines the types of particles that can be produced in the collisions and the energy levels at which these interactions occur. By adjusting the beam energy, scientists can study different aspects of particle interactions and gain a better understanding of the underlying physics.

5. Are there any safety concerns related to adjusting the beam energy in particle accelerators?

Yes, there are strict safety protocols in place to ensure the safe operation of particle accelerators. Adjusting the beam energy must be done carefully and under strict supervision to avoid any accidents or damage to the equipment. Additionally, there are safety measures in place to protect the scientists and technicians working with the accelerators.

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