What is a longitudinally-polarized boson?

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The discussion revolves around the concept of longitudinally-polarized bosons, particularly focusing on the relationship between spin and momentum, and how it relates to helicity. Participants are exploring the definitions and implications of these terms within the context of particle physics.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are questioning whether longitudinal polarization implies that spin and momentum are aligned, and if this is analogous to helicity. There is also inquiry into the technical differences between these concepts.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights regarding the relationship between longitudinal polarization and helicity, suggesting that longitudinally polarized bosons have helicity equal to zero. However, there remains some uncertainty and differing interpretations regarding the definitions and distinctions between these terms.

Contextual Notes

There appears to be some confusion or lack of clarity about the definitions of longitudinal polarization and helicity, as well as their implications in particle physics. Participants are reflecting on their understanding and memory of these concepts.

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Occassionally, I come across this term: longitudinally-polarized boson. Does it mean that the boson spin is aligned with the x-axis ?
 
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Longitudinal polarization is a relation between spin and momentum.
 
Dick said:
Longitudinal polarization is a relation between spin and momentum.

So, it means the spin and the momentum is aligned the same? Isn't this similar to helicity ?
 
I've always thought of them as the same. Is there a technical difference?
 
Longitudinally polarized means helicity equals zero.
 
Meir Achuz said:
Longitudinally polarized means helicity equals zero.

Thanks, Meir. I thought my memory seemed a little fuzzy on that.
 

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