What is decay length in particle physics?

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Decay length in particle physics refers to the distance a particle travels before it decays, calculated using its velocity and decay lifetime. For nonrelativistic particles, the formula is βcτ, where β is the velocity as a fraction of the speed of light, c, and τ is the decay lifetime. In relativistic scenarios, time dilation must be considered, leading to the formula βγcτ, where γ is the Lorentz factor. This distinction is crucial for accurately determining decay lengths in high-energy physics. Understanding these concepts is essential for studying particle behavior in various contexts.
luxiaolei
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Hi,all, what is decay length in particle physics? I could not find on web, so frustrating. Thanks a lot for any helps!
 
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In nonrelativistic situations, if a particle has a velocity v = βc, and a 1/e decay lifetime τ (e.g., 2.2 microseconds for muon), then the distance the particle will travel before decaying is βcτ.

For relativistic particles, we need to add time dilation, so the 1/e decay length becomes βγcτ

Bob S
 
@Bob S; Thanks alot!
 

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