Lepton beta decay when m near m_W?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the calculation of lepton beta decay when the mass of the charged lepton is close to the W boson mass (m_W). Alejandro suggests that the process can be approached by substituting Fermi's constant with the W-boson propagator, specifically using the formula G_F → (ig^2)/(t - m_W^2), while noting that the overall structure remains similar to muon decay. The inquiry highlights a gap in existing literature regarding this specific case, indicating a need for further exploration in theoretical physics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Fermi's constant in particle physics
  • Familiarity with W boson properties and interactions
  • Knowledge of beta decay processes, specifically muon decay
  • Basic grasp of quantum field theory and propagators
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the derivation of beta decay formulas for charged leptons
  • Study the implications of W-boson propagators in particle decay
  • Explore the relationship between muon decay and top quark decay
  • Investigate existing literature on lepton mass effects in beta decay
USEFUL FOR

The discussion is beneficial for theoretical physicists, particle physicists, and advanced students interested in the nuances of lepton decay processes and the role of W bosons in particle interactions.

arivero@unizar.es
lepton beta decay when m near m_W?

Has anybody seen somewhere, article or textbook or website, the
calculation of beta decay of a charged lepton in the generic case,
when mass is neither a lot smaller nor a lot greater than the mass of
the W?

It should be some result interpolating between the traditional
formulas of muon decay and top quark decay. One could expect it to be
solved as exercise somewhere, or at least proposed to be solved.

Hints?

Alejandro
 
Physics news on Phys.org
At tree leve, all you need to do is replace Fermi's constant with the W-boson propogator:

[tex] G_F\rightarrow\frac{ig^2}{t-m_W^2}[/tex]

up to factors of 2 which are easily found. Other than that change, it's pretty much exactly the same as muon decay.

Strictly out of curiosity: why do you care? No leptons are anywhere near the W-mass...
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
5K
  • · Replies 49 ·
2
Replies
49
Views
13K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
4K
  • · Replies 0 ·
Replies
0
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
5K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
615