- #1
jjustinn
- 164
- 3
As I understand it (e.g. from discussions around the Fermi field theory of the nuclear force), a spin 1/2 particle can emit a spin-1 particle and simultaneously flip its spin (say, spin +1/2 -> photon +1 & spin -1/2); but how does this work with spin-2 particles? Does it need to emit pairs in opposite directions (so no spin flip)?
Of am I completely misunderstanding how spin is "conserved" in interactions / decay?
On the off chance the first answer isn't "you are completely misunderstanding this", my next question would be how this works with absorption (i.e. spin-2 particles are absorbed in opposing-pairs only? Unless it's a virtual-only process, that seems far-fetched).
Thanks.
Of am I completely misunderstanding how spin is "conserved" in interactions / decay?
On the off chance the first answer isn't "you are completely misunderstanding this", my next question would be how this works with absorption (i.e. spin-2 particles are absorbed in opposing-pairs only? Unless it's a virtual-only process, that seems far-fetched).
Thanks.