Particle Physics Homework: Neutral Pion Decays

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the decay of neutral pions into two photons, which subsequently decay into electron-positron pairs. The Feynman diagram for this process illustrates the neutral pion entering with an arrow, splitting into two squiggly lines representing photons, which then lead to electron-positron annihilation. Identifying this decay in bubble chambers is challenging due to the invisibility of photons, as they only become detectable upon interaction with other particles, creating gaps in their tracks.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Feynman diagrams
  • Knowledge of particle decay processes
  • Familiarity with bubble chamber operation
  • Concept of electron-positron annihilation
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of Feynman diagrams in particle physics
  • Research the Pion double Dalitz decay process
  • Explore the detection mechanisms of bubble chambers
  • Learn about photon interactions with matter
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Students and researchers in particle physics, particularly those studying decay processes and detection methods in experimental physics.

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Homework Statement




Q)

1]Neutral pion decays into 2 photons which then decay into electron-positron pairs.

What would the feynman diagram look like?

2] Why is this decay of the neutral pion difficult to identify in bumble chambers?


Homework Equations



feynman diagram


The Attempt at a Solution




1]neutral pion enters feynman diagram with arrow point in, then separating into 2 photons show by squiggly lines. both of these photons then separate creatin the electron-positron annihilation shown by e- meeting the photon and e+ meeting the photon ?

2]hard to detect as photons are invisible and only show up when interacting with as particle and can have gaps between their interactions like with the electron-positron shown here

?:confused:
 
Physics news on Phys.org
1. Yes, this is also called "Pion double dalitz decay"

http://www-he.scphys.kyoto-u.ac.jp/colloquium/trape/FY2008/081121_maeda.pdf

slide 13

2. WHY are the photons "invinsible" in bubble chambers? Think which particles that make tracks in bubble chambers and what property they posess.
 
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