Physicists measure unexpected symmetry breaking in exotic particle collisions
Researchers at the LHCb detector have measured how Lambda hyperons—unstable particles produced in high-energy collisions—behave asymmetrically, challenging theoretical predictions. The findings refine understanding of fundamental particle physics and could inform next-generation detector design and high-energy physics research priorities.
Originaltitel: Transverse polarization measurement of Î hyperons in pNe collisions at âs<sub>NN</sub>=68.4 GeV with the LHCb detector
<p>A measurement of the transverse polarization of the Lambda and (Lambda) over bar hyperons in pNe fixed-target collisions at root s(NN) = 68.4 GeV is presented using data collected by the LHCb detector. The polarization is studied using the decay Lambda -> p pi(-) together with its charge conjugated process, the integrated values measured are P-Lambda = 0.029 +/- 0.019 (stat) +/- 0.012 (syst), P-(Lambda) over bar = 0.003 +/- 0.023 (stat) +/- 0.014 (syst). Furthermore, the results are shown as a function of the Feynman x variable, transverse momentum, pseudorapidity and rapidity of the hyperons, and are compared with previous measurements.</p>