How can a pi_0 meson decay into 2 photons?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the decay of a pi_0 meson into two photons, represented by the equation π_0 → γ + γ. The key issue raised is the conservation of spin, as the pi meson has a spin of 0 while each photon has a spin of +1. This leads to a total spin of +2 for the two photons, which seems to violate conservation laws. Participants note that while momentum, energy, charge, and baryon number are conserved, the spin conservation appears problematic. The conversation emphasizes the need to clarify how spin conservation works in particle decays involving photons.
Blue_Angel
Messages
3
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


Earlier my teacher put this equation on the board,
π_0 --> γ+γ
It appears to work until you consider spin.

Homework Equations


a quick google search reveals that the spin of a photon is +1 and the spin of a pi meson is 0

The Attempt at a Solution


This appears to work for momentum, energy, charge, baryon number...
But π_0 has no spin and γ has a spin of +1.
So in essence the atomic spin starts at 0 and finishes at +2.
What am I missing?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Two particles with spin 1 don't have to add to spin 2.
 
Thread 'Collision of a bullet on a rod-string system: query'

Thread 'Collision of a bullet on a rod-string system: query'

In this question, I have a question. I am NOT trying to solve it, but it is just a conceptual question. Consider the point on the rod, which connects the string and the rod. My question: just before and after the collision, is ANGULAR momentum CONSERVED about this point? Lets call the point which connects the string and rod as P. Why am I asking this? : it is clear from the scenario that the point of concern, which connects the string and the rod, moves in a circular path due to the string...
View full post »

Similar threads

Fundamental Particles - Meson Decay Question
Replies
2
Views
2K
Relativistic momentum of two photons from a decay
Replies
4
Views
2K
Energy of the photon emitted in a gamma ray decay
Replies
19
Views
3K
What Are the Energy and Angles of Photons from \(\pi_{0}\) Meson Decay?
Replies
2
Views
2K
How Do You Calculate the Kinetic Energy of a Meson That Decays into Two Photons?
Replies
23
Views
3K
Pi meson decay (relativistic momentum)
Replies
4
Views
3K
Calculating Photon Frequency From Relativistic Decay: Homework Solution
Replies
10
Views
2K
Understanding the Math behind meson decay computations
Replies
10
Views
1K
Max Energy Λ in Σ0 Decay: Explained & Calculated
Replies
15
Views
2K
How Do You Calculate the Kinetic Energy of Particles in Relativistic Decay?
Replies
3
Views
3K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top