Why Is the Cross Section for e- + e+ -> γ Zero?

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The cross section for the process e- + e+ -> γ is zero due to conservation laws, specifically the conservation of four-momentum and charge. In this interaction, two charged particles annihilate to produce a single photon, which cannot conserve energy and momentum simultaneously. The discussion emphasizes the importance of Feynman diagrams in visualizing particle interactions, but in this case, the conservation laws provide a sufficient explanation without needing a detailed diagram. The inquiry also highlights the relevance of understanding vertex and propagator factors in calculating cross sections for other processes. Ultimately, the impossibility of producing a single photon from two charged particles leads to the conclusion that the cross section is indeed zero.
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Homework Statement


I am making an old exam of a particle physics course, and i know how to calculate the cross section for example for
bhabha or moller scattering.

now one of the questions on the old exam is:

Explain why e-+ e+ -> γ is zero, but i am not sure why this is, can someone explain this or point me in the right direction.

2.
I would usually when determining the cross section start with drawing the lowest order feynman diagram, my book put t on the x axis, and the determine the vertex and propagator factors, so i can determine the matrix element.

than with the formula dσ/dΩ = 1/64*pi*s * M^2
 
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Does it perhaps violate some conservation law? Do you even need to draw a Feynman diagram to come to this conclusion?
 

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