Neutrino Annihilation: Validity of Interaction and Lepton Number Conservation

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the validity of a proposed particle interaction involving neutrinos and the conservation of lepton number. The original poster questions whether lepton number conservation applies at each vertex or for the overall process, while also considering the appropriate mediating particle for the interaction.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the nature of the interaction, discussing potential mediators such as the Z boson and W boson, and the implications of charge transfer in the process. The original poster revisits their understanding of lepton number conservation in the context of the interaction.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing insights into the nature of weak interactions and the appropriate exchange particles. There is a recognition of the original poster's evolving understanding, particularly regarding the representation of the interaction in a Feynman diagram.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the complexities of particle interactions and conservation laws, with specific focus on the role of lepton number and the characteristics of weak interactions. The original poster's uncertainty about charge transfer adds a layer of complexity to the discussion.

jazznaz
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Homework Statement



Is the following process a valid interaction?

\nu_\mu \bar{\nu}_e \rightarrow e^+ \mu

Homework Equations



none

The Attempt at a Solution



I'm not sure whether lepton number must be conserved at each vertex, or just for the overall process. I can draw a Feynman diagram with a Z0 boson as the exchange particle, but I'm not convinced that this is correct.
 
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Yes, it is, but it's not mediated by the Z boson.
 
In that case, it must be a photon?
 
No. If the process involves neutrinos, it's a weak interaction.
 
I think I'm being distracted by thinking that there's no transfer of charge between the initial and final states.

Had another go, and now have a diagram that looks like a scattering process with the exchange of a W+ boson.
 
Sounds right!
 
Thanks!
 

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