Particle Physics Homework: Neutral Pion Decays

In summary, the neutral pion decays into 2 photons which then decay into electron-positron pairs, as shown in the Feynman diagram. However, this decay is difficult to identify in bubble chambers because photons are invisible and can only be detected when interacting with a particle, which can create gaps in their interactions.
  • #1
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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:
 
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  • #2
1. Yes, this is also called "Pion double dalitz decay"

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

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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1. What is a neutral pion and how does it decay?

A neutral pion is a subatomic particle that is composed of a quark and an antiquark. It decays into two photons, or light particles, through a process known as electromagnetic decay. This decay occurs due to the strong force, one of the four fundamental forces of nature.

2. How long does it take for a neutral pion to decay?

The average lifetime of a neutral pion is very short, at approximately 8.4 x 10^-17 seconds. This means that it decays very quickly after it is created.

3. What is the significance of studying neutral pion decays in particle physics?

Studying neutral pion decays helps to understand the strong force and the fundamental interactions between subatomic particles. Additionally, it provides insight into the behavior and properties of quarks and antiquarks.

4. How is the decay of neutral pions detected and measured?

The decay of neutral pions is detected and measured using particle detectors, such as scintillators or bubble chambers. These detectors can identify the photons produced during the decay and measure their energies and directions.

5. What are some real-world applications of understanding neutral pion decays?

Understanding neutral pion decays can have practical applications in medical imaging, as positron emission tomography (PET) scans use the same type of particles (photons) to create images of the human body. Additionally, the study of subatomic particles and their interactions can lead to advancements in technology and energy production.

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