What Causes a Narrow Resonance in Particle Spectra?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the causes of narrow resonances in particle spectra, particularly in the context of particle detection and the interpretation of histogram peaks. Participants explore theoretical and experimental aspects related to resonance identification and the implications of observed peaks in data.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the nature of a resonance particle, suggesting that a peak in the histogram may indicate a high probability of a particle's existence.
  • Another participant prompts for clarification on the origin of the peak, implying that it must have a specific cause.
  • A participant introduces the concept of a threshold cusp as a potential explanation for peaks, referencing a specific paper on the topic.
  • It is noted that indications of a resonance may come from both a peak in the scattering amplitude and a rapid phase increase, with a specific example given regarding the Z(4430) candidate.
  • One participant emphasizes the importance of context in understanding the original question and encourages further thought from another participant.
  • Another participant discusses the Wigner cusp phenomenon, suggesting that narrow resonances can occur near thresholds where one scattering channel dominates, and highlights the need for a broader understanding beyond just the graph.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying viewpoints on the causes of peaks in particle spectra, with some suggesting different mechanisms such as resonances and threshold cusps. The discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing explanations presented.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference specific theoretical concepts and papers, indicating that the discussion may depend on particular definitions and interpretations of resonance phenomena. There is an acknowledgment that the histogram alone does not provide a complete picture.

HAMJOOP
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To find a new particle, the energy and momentum of the (decayed) particles are measured
Evaluate the expression m^2 = E^2 - p^2 and plot a histogram.

I just don't understand why there is a resonance particle if there is a peak in the histogram.
Is it because the probability is very high and we regard it as a particle ??
 
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Where else would the peak come from?
 
Simon Bridge said:
Where else would the peak come from?
A threshold cusp, for one thing. http://arxiv.org/abs/hep-ph/0406293

Indication of a resonance comes not just from a peak in the partial-wave scattering amplitude, but also a rapid increase in its phase. This recently played a role in the identification of Z(4430) as a candidate for a four-quark state. http://arxiv.org/abs/1404.1903
 
Last edited:
... OK, but I wanted HAMJOOP to think about it first.
(In the context in which the question was asked...)
 
Simon Bridge said:
... OK, but I wanted HAMJOOP to think about it first.
(In the context in which the question was asked...)
Sorry, I just thought it was an interesting question. Did I get it right? :smile:
 
Well it is the interesting form of the original question yes.
A narrow resonance in a spectra could be a wigner cusp - usually a scattering experiment... occurs near the threshold where one channel comes to dominate another one.

Particle detection experiments try to avoid these thresholds.
It's the other half fo the answer OP is looking for. The graph, by itself, is not the whole story.
 

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