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What is the Decay Width of a particle and how is it related to the particle's lifetime ?
Decay width is a measure of how quickly a particle decays or breaks down into other particles. It is represented by the symbol Γ (gamma) and is measured in units of energy, such as electron volts (eV) or gigaelectron volts (GeV).
Particle lifetime and decay width are inversely related. This means that a larger decay width indicates a shorter particle lifetime, and vice versa. The relationship between the two is given by the equation τ=1/Γ, where τ is the particle lifetime.
Decay width is an important parameter in particle physics because it provides information about the fundamental properties of particles. By measuring the decay width, scientists can determine the strength of the particle's interaction with other particles, as well as its mass and other characteristics.
Scientists typically measure decay width by analyzing the energy and momentum of the particles produced in the decay process. They can also use mathematical models and calculations to predict the decay width based on other known parameters of the particle.
Decay width is a fundamental property of a particle and cannot be changed or manipulated. It is a fixed value that is determined by the particle's interactions and characteristics. However, it can vary depending on the energy and environment in which the particle is observed.