Solving Spin of Decay Product: A→B+C+D

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the decay of a spin 1/2 particle A into particles B, C, and D, where B and C are also spin 1/2. The key conclusion is that the complete set of allowed spin values for particle D is [1/2, 3/2], which was not listed in the provided multiple-choice options. The participant argues that option (3) [1/2 only] is the most reasonable choice, as it avoids including disallowed values, while option (4) includes invalid values such as 5/2 and 7/2. The discussion highlights the importance of considering orbital angular momentum in decay processes.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum mechanics and spin statistics
  • Familiarity with particle decay processes
  • Knowledge of angular momentum conservation laws
  • Basic concepts of quantum numbers and their implications
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of orbital angular momentum in particle decay
  • Study the conservation laws in quantum mechanics, particularly spin conservation
  • Explore the classification of particles based on their spin and statistics
  • Learn about the role of angular momentum in determining allowed states in quantum systems
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in physics, particularly those focused on quantum mechanics, particle physics, and angular momentum conservation. This discussion is beneficial for anyone studying particle decay and spin interactions.

goyalvishal4
Messages
5
Reaction score
0
A spin 1/2 particle A undergoes decay A→B+C+D Where it is known that B and C are also spin 1/2. The complete set of allowed values of spin of D

It was a Multiple Choice Question and options given were
1) 1/2,1,3/2,2,5/2,3,...
2) 0,1
3) 1/2 only
4) 1/2,3/2,5/2,7/2,...


I tried the question as below
complete set of possibilities of spin combination taking into consideration the conservation of spin quantum number are listed in a table below
csir_2013_06_75.png

Thus the complete set of allowed values of spin for particle D is [1/2, 3/2] which was nowhere in options, hence I thought all four options were wrong. However the option (3) [1/2 only] makes most sense as it does not contain any value which isn't allowed hence not complete but is at least set of allowed values, while they have selected option (4) as correct one which contain 5/2, 7/2 which are not allowed value in any way.

Am I wrong somewhere and there be some other point I missing??
 
Physics news on Phys.org
You're forgetting the fact that the decay products may also have orbital angular momenta. which can have any integer eigenvalue.
 

Similar threads

Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
9
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
14
Views
4K
Replies
8
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
8K