Limits on a π - μ atom anomaly

The decay rate of K$^0_L$ into πμ atoms provides a test for the existence of a possible short-range anomalous interaction between the pion and muon. For an elastic interaction, the effect would show up in the πμ wave function of the Coulomb bound state, and we examine mechanisms that could alter the...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Physical review. D, Particles and fields Particles and fields, 1977-08, Vol.16 (3), p.726-731
Main Author: Staffin, Robin
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
PHYSICS OF ELEMENTARY PARTICLES AND FIELDS
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Summary:The decay rate of K$^0_L$ into πμ atoms provides a test for the existence of a possible short-range anomalous interaction between the pion and muon. For an elastic interaction, the effect would show up in the πμ wave function of the Coulomb bound state, and we examine mechanisms that could alter the wave function at the origin. An inelastic interaction that could lead to depletion of πμ atoms through the Konopinski-Mahmoud-allowed transition π+μ– → π–e+ is also considered. Limits on these interactions are computed from precise atomic measurements of energy levels in muonic atoms and from the measured muon g – 2 value and capture rates. As a result, these limits are then related to recent observations on the formation of πμ atoms in K$^0_L$ decay.
ISSN:0556-2821
1089-4918
DOI:10.1103/PhysRevD.16.726