How can e-e+ possibly go to ZZ?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the annihilation of an electron and positron resulting in two Z bosons (ZZ). Participants clarify that charge conservation prohibits the exchange of W bosons, photons, or Z bosons directly in this process. Instead, the interaction can occur through a t-channel electron, similar to the annihilation process that produces two photons. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding particle interactions within the Standard Model (SM).

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  • Understanding of particle physics, specifically the Standard Model (SM).
  • Familiarity with the concepts of charge conservation and particle interactions.
  • Knowledge of bosons, particularly the properties of W and Z bosons.
  • Basic comprehension of Feynman diagrams and their applications in particle interactions.
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  • Research the role of t-channel processes in particle physics.
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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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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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The process goes by a t-channel electron.
 
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