How could this,Sigma0 decay into Lambda and gamma, happens?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the decay process of the Σ0 baryon into a Λ baryon and a photon (γ), specifically examining the implications of parity conservation in this electromagnetic decay. Participants explore theoretical aspects related to conservation laws and the calculation of parity in particle interactions.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant argues that the decay Σ0→Λ+γ cannot occur due to parity conservation being violated, as the intrinsic parities of the involved particles suggest an odd parity on the right side of the equation.
  • Another participant points out the need to consider the parity of the wave-function of the final state in addition to the intrinsic parities of the particles.
  • A later reply expresses gratitude for the clarification, suggesting that the issue may have been resolved, although it does not provide a definitive conclusion.
  • One participant questions how to calculate the parity of the final state, indicating uncertainty about the methodology involved.
  • Another participant confirms that the parity of the wave-function must be multiplied with the intrinsic parities, and they inquire about the specific meaning of this calculation.
  • A subsequent response affirms the inquiry regarding the relationship between the parity of the wave-function and the orbital quantum number L.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the implications of parity conservation in the decay process, with some asserting that the decay cannot occur while others suggest that additional factors must be considered. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the overall feasibility of the decay.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the discussion regarding the assumptions made about parity conservation and the specific definitions of particle states and wave-functions, which are not fully explored or clarified.

HanningWu
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I found an article, titled Electromagnetic Decay of the Σ0(1385) to Λγ , in the arXiv telling that the reaction
Σ0→Λ+γ
can happen through electromagnetic interaction. However, if I examine the conservation of parity. Parity on the left side is even(P(Σ0)=+), but that on the right side is odd(P(Λ)=+, while P(γ)=-). In this sense, the parity conservation is violated. In addition, I am convinced that the parity is conserved under electromagnetic interaction, so this reaction by no means can exist.
 
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Those are the intrinsic parities of the particle states. You also need to consider the parity of the wave-function of the final state.
 
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Orodruin said:
Those are the intrinsic parities of the particle states. You also need to consider the parity of the wave-function of the final state.
Thank you so much! Problem solved. :biggrin:
 
Orodruin said:
Those are the intrinsic parities of the particle states. You also need to consider the parity of the wave-function of the final state.
Since I can't simply multiply the parity of the Lambda bayon and the photon, how can I calculate the parity of the final state?
 
You can, but you also have to multiply it with the parity of the wave-function combining the two particles.
 
mfb said:
You can, but you also have to multiply it with the parity of the wave-function combining the two particles.
Does "the parity of the wave-function combining the two particle" mean the parity valued (-1)L, where L is the orbital quantum number?
 

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