Mass Eigenstates: Definite Mass States Explained

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SUMMARY

The terms "states of definite mass" and "mass eigenstates" are synonymous in the context of neutrino physics. Neutrino oscillation, as detailed in the Wikipedia article on neutrino oscillation, arises from the mixing of flavor eigenstates and mass eigenstates of neutrinos. This phenomenon illustrates that the three neutrino states interacting with charged leptons are superpositions of three distinct mass eigenstates. Therefore, understanding this relationship is crucial for comprehending neutrino behavior in weak interactions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Neutrino physics fundamentals
  • Understanding of flavor and mass eigenstates
  • Basic knowledge of weak interactions
  • Familiarity with quantum mechanics concepts
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of neutrino oscillation in detail
  • Explore the mathematical framework of flavor and mass eigenstates
  • Research the implications of neutrino mixing on particle physics
  • Examine experimental evidence supporting neutrino oscillation theories
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, students of particle physics, and anyone interested in the behavior of neutrinos and their role in weak interactions.

aveline de grandpre
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Does saying "states of definite mass" is the same as saying "mass eigenstates"?
 
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Usually yes, but it would be good form to reference the text you are reading to provide us with enough information to answer your question.
 
Orodruin said:
Usually yes, but it would be good form to reference the text you are reading to provide us with enough information to answer your question.
Orodruin said:
Usually yes, but it would be good form to reference the text you are reading to provide us with enough information to answer your question.
I read this from Wikipedia

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neutrino_oscillation

" Neutrino oscillation arises from a mixture between the flavor and mass eigenstates of neutrinos. That is, the three neutrino states that interact with the charged leptons in weak interactions are each a different superposition of the three neutrino states of definite mass. "
 
Yes, they are the same.
 

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