Proton-Antiproton Annihilation

In summary, the problem involves the annihilation of a proton and antiproton at rest in an S-state, resulting in the production of \pi0 + \pi0 pairs. The question is whether this reaction can be considered a strong interaction. After some analysis, it is determined that the parity of the antiproton is -1, while the total parity on the left hand side of the equation is 0. However, there is uncertainty about the exact interpretation of the problem and what is meant by "\pi0\pi0 pairs".
  • #1
Skatch
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Homework Statement



A proton and antiproton at rest in an S-state annihilate to produce [tex]\pi[/tex]0[tex]\pi[/tex]0 pairs. Show
that this reaction cannot be a strong interaction.

Homework Equations



I interpret this problem as:

p + p_bar -> [tex]\pi[/tex]0 + [tex]\pi[/tex]0

The Attempt at a Solution



If this were a strong interaction, Parity should be conserved, yes? I think that in the annihilation
described above, parity is not being conserved.But really, my first question is, am I interpreting it correctly? Is the annihiliation producing [tex]\pi[/tex]0 + [tex]\pi[/tex]0?
Or is it producing [tex]\pi[/tex]0 + [tex]\pi[/tex]0 + [tex]\pi[/tex]0 + [tex]\pi[/tex]0? Not sure what they mean by "[tex]\pi[/tex]0[tex]\pi[/tex]0 pairs".Then my next question is, what is the Parity of p_bar?
 
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  • #2
Okay, so I think I've come to the conclusion that the Parity of the antiproton is -1.
I read that, in general, P(fermion * antifermion) = -1, and since proton's parity is +1, I'm
going to conclude that parity of the antiproton is -1.

Okay, so total parity on the left hand side of the equation is 0.

But I still don't know if I'm interpreting the problem correctly. Is the annihilation producing:

[tex]\pi[/tex]0 + [tex]\pi[/tex]0 ?

[tex]\pi[/tex]0 + [tex]\pi[/tex]0 + [tex]\pi[/tex]0 + [tex]\pi[/tex]0 ?

[tex]\pi[/tex]0[tex]\pi[/tex]0 ?

[tex]\pi[/tex]0[tex]\pi[/tex]0 + [tex]\pi[/tex]0[tex]\pi[/tex]0 ?

Pardon the ignorance here. I'm taking this Nuclear Physics class despite not meeting some
of the pre-reqs. I'm a math major that was just interested in the material, so I'm a bit
behind.

Thanks for any help.
 

FAQ: Proton-Antiproton Annihilation

What is proton-antiproton annihilation?

Proton-antiproton annihilation is a process in which a proton and an antiproton collide and produce energy in the form of gamma rays or other particles.

How does proton-antiproton annihilation occur?

Proton-antiproton annihilation occurs when a proton and an antiproton come into close proximity and interact through the strong nuclear force. This interaction results in the annihilation of both particles and the production of new particles or energy.

What is the significance of proton-antiproton annihilation in particle physics?

Proton-antiproton annihilation is significant in particle physics because it allows scientists to study the fundamental forces and building blocks of matter. By observing the particles and energy produced in this process, researchers can gain a better understanding of the laws and principles that govern the universe.

What are some potential applications of proton-antiproton annihilation?

One potential application of proton-antiproton annihilation is in cancer treatment. The high-energy gamma rays produced in this process can be used to target and destroy cancer cells. Additionally, the study of this process can also lead to advancements in energy production and propulsion systems.

What advancements have been made in understanding proton-antiproton annihilation?

Through experiments at particle accelerators such as the Large Hadron Collider, scientists have been able to observe and measure the products of proton-antiproton annihilation in greater detail. This has led to a better understanding of the fundamental forces and particles involved in this process.

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