How can e-e+ possibly go to ZZ?

In summary, there is a question about how an electron and positron can result in ZZ when they annihilate. The issue is that the exchange particle cannot be W- or W+ due to charge conservation and it also cannot be a photon or a Z due to the lack of electrical or weak charge in the Z's. However, it is possible for a photon or a Z boson to mediate this interaction, similar to how annihilation to two photons works. This process involves a t-channel electron and is illustrated in the first two diagrams, with the third being impossible in the Standard Model. The process also applies to leptons.
  • #1
AlanKirby
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Hi there, my question is the following.

If an electron and positron annihilate, how can they result in ZZ?

The issue I'm having is that due to charge conservation, the exchange particle can't be W- or W+.
It also can't be a photon since the Z's don't have electrical charge to couple to.
It also can't be a Z since the Z's don't have weak charge to couple to.

I'm reading in my notes that a photon or a Z boson can mediate this interaction. How is that possible?

Thanks for any replies.
 
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  • #2
It can work in the same way the annihilation to two photons works. No need to have the two Z interact with each other.
The first two diagrams here - the third is not possible in the SM. The diagrams are for quarks but leptons work the same way.
 
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  • #3
The process goes by a t-channel electron.
 
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1. How is the e-e+ collision able to produce a ZZ particle pair?

The e-e+ collision is able to produce a ZZ particle pair through the process of electroweak interaction. This interaction involves the exchange of virtual W and Z bosons between the electron and positron, resulting in the creation of a Z boson pair.

2. Can e-e+ collisions produce other types of particles besides ZZ?

Yes, e-e+ collisions can produce a variety of particles besides ZZ, such as W+W-, ZH, and ttbar. The type of particle produced depends on the energy of the collision and the types of particles involved.

3. What is the significance of the ZZ particle pair in particle physics?

The ZZ particle pair is significant because it is a manifestation of the electroweak force, which is one of the four fundamental forces in nature. It also helps scientists understand the properties and interactions of other particles, such as the Higgs boson.

4. How do scientists detect and study ZZ particles created in e-e+ collisions?

Scientists use large detectors, such as the Compact Muon Solenoid (CMS) at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), to detect and study ZZ particles. These detectors are able to measure the properties and behaviors of the particles produced in collisions, providing valuable data for further analysis.

5. What impact does the production of ZZ particles have on our understanding of the universe?

The production of ZZ particles in e-e+ collisions helps scientists better understand the fundamental forces and building blocks of the universe. It also provides evidence for the validity of the Standard Model of particle physics, which describes the behavior of particles and their interactions.

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