Parity violation in lambda baryon decay

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the weak decay of the lambda baryon into a proton and pion, highlighting the violation of parity conservation. Participants analyze the angular distribution of protons relative to the lambda baryon's spin, utilizing non-relativistic wavefunctions. Key variables include the projections of orbital angular momentum (L_z'), proton spin (s_z'), and total angular momentum (J_z'), with allowed combinations identified. The Wigner-Eckart theorem is suggested as a potential method for deriving the angular distribution, although participants express uncertainty in its application.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of weak interactions in particle physics
  • Familiarity with angular momentum conservation principles
  • Knowledge of non-relativistic quantum mechanics
  • Proficiency in applying the Wigner-Eckart theorem
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of the Wigner-Eckart theorem in particle decay processes
  • Research angular distribution calculations in weak decays
  • Explore the implications of parity violation in quantum mechanics
  • Examine the role of chirality in weak interactions
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Particle physicists, quantum mechanics students, and researchers focusing on weak decay processes and angular momentum in baryon interactions.

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Homework Statement



In the weak decay of the lambda baryon to a proton and pion, parity is not conserved, allowing for s and p waves in the orbital wave function of the pion-proton system. Using non-relativistic wavefunctions, find the angular distribution of the protons relative to the lambda's spin, which points along the z-axis.

2. Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


Define the z'-axis as the direction of the proton's momentum.
Define L_z' as the projection of the orbital angular momentum of the pion-proton system along z'.
Define s_z' as the projection along the z'-axis of the proton's spin.
Define J_z' as the total angular momentum along z'.

J_z' can be +1/2 or -1/2 (so J=1/2, and angular momentum is conserved).
Therefore the following combinations of [L_z', s_z'] are allowed: [1, -1/2], [0,1/2], [0,-1/2], [-1, 1/2].

Chirality is conserved at the weak interaction vertices. However, as it is the constituent quarks interacting, not the proton/baryon, I can't see what limitations this places on the chirality of the proton.
 
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I then thought that I could use the Wigner-Eckart theorem to find the angular distribution, but I'm not sure how. As I understand it, the general form for transition matrix elements is given by <J_fM_f|T_q^q|J_iM_i> = (-1)^(j_i - m_i)<j_f || T_q^q || j_i> * <m_f || j_f, m_i>where T_q^q is the operator given by the weak interaction. However, I don't know how to relate this to the angular distribution of the proton. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
 

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