Can Neutrino Mass Eigenstates Ever Change into Other Mass Eigenstates?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the nature of neutrino mass eigenstates and their potential to change into other mass eigenstates, particularly in the context of neutrino oscillations. Participants explore the implications of mass eigenstates being "real" fundamental particles versus the observable neutrino flavors.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether a mass eigenstate, such as |v_{1}>, can change into another mass eigenstate, suggesting that it may remain as |v_{1}> indefinitely.
  • Another participant agrees with the initial assertion regarding the constancy of mass eigenstates.
  • A different viewpoint emphasizes that neutrino flavors are the eigenstates of the weak interaction Hamiltonian, indicating that the production of neutrinos is tied to their flavor rather than mass eigenstates.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

While there is some agreement on the nature of mass eigenstates, the discussion reveals competing views regarding the implications of neutrino flavors and their production mechanisms, indicating that the topic remains unresolved.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not address specific assumptions regarding the definitions of mass eigenstates and flavor states, nor does it clarify the implications of neutrino oscillations on the nature of these states.

McLaren Rulez
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Hi,

We know that when we have one flavour of neutrino, it can change into another flavour by neutrino oscillations. However, if we consider a mass eigenstate, then is it true that it can never change into a different mass eigenstate? In other words is a |v_{1}> neutrino forever a |v_{1}>? I think the answer is yes but I would like to clarify.

If so, are the mass eigenstates the "real" fundamental particles then but it just happens to be that we can only observe neutrino flavours?

Thank you!
 
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That sounds about right.
 
McLaren Rulez said:
If so, are the mass eigenstates the "real" fundamental particles then but it just happens to be that we can only observe neutrino flavours?
It's not only a matter of observation, but also of production. Since the neutrino flavors are the eigenstates of the weak interaction Hamiltonian, these are the particles which are produced in weak interactions.
 
Thank you very much, Parlyne and kith.
 

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