Search for new spin-0 particles near π⁰ mass produced in association with τ pairs at BABAR

Date

2013-08-29

Authors

Beaulieu, Alexandre

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Abstract

This research project searches for new physics in the τ sector that would resolve the tension between BABAR measurement for the pion-photon transition form factor Fπ0(Q^2)and the standard model asymptotic prediction. This behaviour could be explained by a new light pseudo-scalar state that mixes with the π 0 and enhances its coupling to the c and b quarks or the τ lepton, or by a new spin-0 particle with mass very close to the π 0 . We examine one channel to test for existence of such objects: their creation in association with τ pairs in e+ e− collisions. The analysis uses a typical cut-based approach as the large predicted cross-sections and the kinematics of the final states allow for a direct selection of signal events and background suppression. Current simulation studies predict a 90% CL limit on the production cross-section on the order of 100 fb in case of no signal, while the theory predicts production cross-sections on the order of 1 pb to 100 pb depending on the model.

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Keywords

Experimental particle physics, Tau lepton, Pion-photon transition form factor, New interactions, BaBar experiment

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