Measuring Higgs Spin: A Guide to Detecting Symmetry in Decay Products

In summary, the measurement of the Higgs spin involves observing the symmetry of its decays. A spin zero particle would result in a spherically symmetric distribution of decay products, while other spins would show different patterns. However, due to the detection of secondary particles instead of the Higgs itself, the measurement is more complex. The ATLAS and CMS publications detail their methods for measuring the Higgs spin.
  • #1
ChrisVer
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How would someone measure the Higgs spin?
I have a feeling that the spin would somehow affect the symmetry of the decays...? A spin zero would have to show a spherically symmetric distribution of decay products (independent on ##\theta##, maybe a little dependent on ##\eta## due to the construction of the detector and not because of the particle's spin).
However my problem with that is that we don't see the decays of the Higgs, but the secondary particles... for example the HZZ coupling would give 0-2-4 detectable leptons as a signal from the Z decays. Let's take the 4l channel decay of the Z bosons, should the 4 leptons appear symmetrically? Because the Z spin is not zero...I hope I made clear my problem :/
 
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  • #2
The ATLAS and CMS publications describe how they do that. Which part is unclear?
 

What is the purpose of measuring Higgs spin?

The purpose of measuring Higgs spin is to gain a better understanding of the fundamental properties of the Higgs boson, such as its mass and interactions with other particles. This information can help us to further our understanding of the Standard Model of particle physics and potentially uncover new physics beyond the Standard Model.

How is Higgs spin measured?

Higgs spin is measured by analyzing the decay products of the Higgs boson. The symmetry of these decay products can provide clues about the spin of the Higgs boson. For example, if the decay products are emitted in a symmetric pattern, it suggests that the Higgs boson has a spin of 0, while an asymmetric pattern may indicate a spin of 2.

Why is detecting symmetry in decay products important for measuring Higgs spin?

Detecting symmetry in decay products is important because it allows us to distinguish between different possible spin states of the Higgs boson. By analyzing the symmetry of the decay products, we can determine the spin of the Higgs boson and gain a better understanding of its properties.

What challenges are involved in measuring Higgs spin?

One of the main challenges in measuring Higgs spin is the large number of possible decay channels for the Higgs boson. Each decay channel has its own unique characteristics and requires careful analysis to determine the spin of the Higgs boson. Additionally, the decay products of the Higgs boson can be difficult to detect and accurately measure, making the process more challenging.

What are the potential implications of accurately measuring Higgs spin?

Accurately measuring Higgs spin can have significant implications for our understanding of the fundamental laws of physics. It can also help us to identify potential new particles or interactions that may exist beyond the Standard Model. Additionally, precise measurements of Higgs spin can provide valuable information for future experiments and advancements in particle physics.

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