How Do You Calculate Cross Sections in Electron-Neutrino Scattering?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating cross sections in electron-neutrino scattering, specifically focusing on the ratio of cross sections and the relevant factors involved in the calculations. The subject area includes quantum field theory and particle physics, particularly the interactions involving neutrinos and electrons.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to find the ratio of cross sections and the cross section itself by considering propagator factors and Feynman diagrams. Some participants question the adequacy of course materials and suggest external resources. Others express a desire for a less rigorous approach to understanding the calculations involved.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring various aspects of the problem. Some guidance has been offered regarding the integration over angles and the conservation of momentum in tree-level diagrams. There is no explicit consensus yet, as multiple interpretations and approaches are being considered.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the course may cover material not fully addressed in class, leading to uncertainty about the required calculations. There is also mention of integrating over angles but not momenta at tree level, indicating a specific focus on the methodology of cross section calculations.

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Homework Statement


[/B]
(a) Find the ratio of cross sections.
(b) Find the cross section for electron-neutrino scattering by first writing down relevant factors.
2011_B4_Q8.png


Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution



Part (a)[/B]
These represent the neutral current scattering for the muon-neutrino and neutral/charged scattering for electron-neutrino. Feynman diagrams are given by
2011_B4_Q8_2.png


Given that there are 2 possibilities for the electronic case, I say ##R = 2##?

Part (b)

Propagator factor is given by ##\frac{1}{P \cdot P - m_w^2}## which in the zero-momentum frame is ##\approx \frac{1}{m_w^2}##.
There are two vertices, so another factor of ##g_w^2##.
Thus amplitude is ##\frac{g_w^2}{m_w^2}##.
By fermi's golden rule, ##\Gamma = 2\pi |M_{fi}|^2 \frac{dN}{dE_0}##.
Cross section is ##d\sigma = \frac{\Gamma}{v_e}##.

How do I proceed?
 
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Correct me if I'm wrong but it seems the course asks you to do things you haven't seen in class. If that's the case, these lecture notes might help http://isites.harvard.edu/fs/docs/icb.topic521209.files/QFT-Schwartz.pdf
It's been a while since I've computed cross-sections. If I see something better I'll let you know.
 
thierrykauf said:
Correct me if I'm wrong but it seems the course asks you to do things you haven't seen in class. If that's the case, these lecture notes might help http://isites.harvard.edu/fs/docs/icb.topic521209.files/QFT-Schwartz.pdf
It's been a while since I've computed cross-sections. If I see something better I'll let you know.
I'm looking for a hand-wavy approach in the sense we avoid explicitly calculating the feynman probabilities.

I think the density of states is something like: ##\frac{dN}{dE_0} = \frac{dN_e}{dp_e} \frac{dp_e}{dE_0} = \frac{1}{(2\pi)^6} p_e^2 dp_e \frac{dp_e}{dE_0} ##. How do I proceed?
 
bumpp
 
Sorry I've been busy! Didn't find time to reply more. I know better what kind of answer is needed. I'll try to post later today.
 
bumpp
 
As I remember you integrate over angle but not over momenta at tree level.
 
thierrykauf said:
As I remember you integrate over angle but not over momenta at tree level.

So How do I find the cross section at tree level feynman diagrams?
 
For each tree diagram you have a coupling constant at each vertex, a delta function that says momentum is conserved so inner momentum, that of the Z or W is fixed, because in and out particles are on-shell. So the integration over d3p, 3d momentum. becomes integral over solid angle omega. Let me know if this helps. http://www.iop.vast.ac.vn/theor/conferences/vsop/18/files/QFT-6.pdf
 

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