What Explains the Extra Factor of 2 in Peskin and Schroeder's Eq. 18.84?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the numerical factors in Peskin and Schroeder's equations, specifically the transition from equation 18.80 to 18.84. The factor of ½ in equation 18.80 and the introduction of 4π when converting from e² to α lead to confusion regarding the additional factor of 2π in equation 18.84. The relationship between the two equations is clarified through the optical theorem, which connects the processes of electron-positron annihilation into leptons and hadrons.

PREREQUISITES
  • Familiarity with quantum field theory concepts
  • Understanding of Peskin and Schroeder's "An Introduction to Quantum Field Theory"
  • Knowledge of the optical theorem in particle physics
  • Basic proficiency in mathematical notation used in physics equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the optical theorem and its implications in quantum field theory
  • Study the derivation of equation 18.80 in Peskin and Schroeder
  • Analyze the transition from e² to α in quantum electrodynamics
  • Explore the significance of numerical factors in particle interaction equations
USEFUL FOR

Students and researchers in theoretical physics, particularly those studying quantum field theory and the nuances of particle interactions as presented in Peskin and Schroeder's work.

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Homework Statement


So I am self-studying the book of Peskin&Schroeder, and there is something I don't understand on page 616.

In eq. 18.80, there is a numerical factor of ½ and going from e2 to α will introduce a factor 4π when proceeding to eq. 18.84. But then there should be a numerical factor of 2π in eq 18.84. What gives an extra factor of 2?

Homework Equations


dm0xMXR3.jpe

(this is the first time I post here, please do tell if uploading a page in this format is not acceptable)

The Attempt at a Solution



I believe I understand the rest of the calculation on this page.
 
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Well, equation (18.80) is for ##e^+e^-\rightarrow e^+e^-##, equation (18.84) is for ##e^+e^-\rightarrow \text{hadrons}##. As the text says, the two are related by the optical theorem.
 

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