Higgs Experiment for new particle (decay widths)

In summary, an experiment has been proposed to directly measure the width and mass of the Higgs boson by observing the reaction of muon+ and muon- producing it. A Lorentzian graph with N(E) against E has been drawn to show the expected cross section with the width at Full Width Half Maximum and the graph centered on the mass of the Higgs. This experiment can also test the hypothesis of the Higgs boson decaying to undiscovered particles by observing any shifts in the center of the graph which could indicate the presence of these new particles. The relation between width and lifetime, and between lifetime and decay modes is crucial in understanding the decay behavior of the Higgs boson.
  • #1
Jem
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< Mentor Note -- thread moved to HH from the technical physics forums, so no HH Template is shown >

Question:
An experiment is proposed to directly measure the width (Γ) and mass (m_H) of the Higgs boson via the reaction: muon+ + muon- > H.

Sketch a graph of the expected cross section as a function of centre of mass collision energy. Indicate on the graph Γ and m_Hc^2.

It is postulated that the Higgs boson could decay to as yet undiscovered particles that would not be detected by a usual particle physics detector. Explain how the above experiment would be able to test this hypothesis.

Answer:
I have drawn a Lorentzian graph of N(E) against E to show the width at Full Width Half Maximum and the graph is centred on x=E=m_Hc^2. I need help in explaining how this experiment would be able to test the hypothesis.
Would the centre of the graph shift if the mass of the products now includes a new unknown particle not just the Higgs?
Thanks!
 
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  • #2
Jem said:
Would the centre of the graph shift if the mass of the products now includes a new unknown particle not just the Higgs?
The question asks about Higgs decays. In the same way as the Higgs can decay e.g. to two quarks it might be possible that the Higgs can decay to a pair of undiscovered particles. You didn't consider all the known decay modes for the mass, why would you do this for an unknown decay mode?

What is the relation between width and lifetime, and between lifetime and decay modes?
 

FAQ: Higgs Experiment for new particle (decay widths)

1. What is the Higgs Experiment for new particle and why is it important?

The Higgs Experiment for new particle is a scientific experiment conducted at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) in CERN to study the properties of the Higgs boson, also known as the "God particle". The Higgs boson is believed to be responsible for giving mass to all other particles in the universe. Understanding its properties can help us better understand the fundamental forces and particles in the universe.

2. How does the Higgs Experiment for new particle work?

The Higgs Experiment involves colliding protons at high energies and observing the subatomic particles that are produced. By analyzing the decay widths of these particles, scientists can search for evidence of the Higgs boson and study its properties.

3. What is the role of decay widths in the Higgs Experiment for new particle?

Decay widths refer to the rate at which a particle decays into other particles. In the Higgs Experiment, scientists measure the decay widths of particles produced in proton collisions to search for evidence of the Higgs boson. The specific decay widths observed can provide information about the mass and other properties of the Higgs boson.

4. What have we learned from the Higgs Experiment for new particle so far?

The Higgs Experiment has confirmed the existence of the Higgs boson and provided valuable information about its properties, such as its mass, spin, and decay widths. It has also provided evidence for the Standard Model of particle physics and opened up new areas of research for understanding the fundamental forces and particles in the universe.

5. What are the potential implications of the Higgs Experiment for new particle?

The Higgs Experiment has the potential to revolutionize our understanding of the universe and the fundamental laws of physics. It can also lead to the development of new technologies and applications, such as improved medical imaging and energy production. Additionally, it may provide insights into the nature of dark matter and dark energy, two mysterious components of the universe that have yet to be fully understood.

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