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Rarest Particle Decay

Discovery of the Rarest Particle Decay: A Step Toward New Physics

In a groundbreaking discovery, scientists have observed the rarest particle decay ever recorded, offering a potential glimpse into new physics beyond the standard model. This extraordinary decay involves subatomic particles called kaons and may lead to the discovery of flaws in physicists’ long-held theory of subatomic particles.

The rare decay is referred to as a “golden channel” due to its predictability within the standard model. The experiment, named NA62, is designed to test this prediction with remarkable precision. If the results deviate from the model, it could be the first sign of new physics, according to Cristina Lazzeroni, a particle physicist from the University of Birmingham, working on the experiment.

The NA62 experiment takes place at CERN, the European particle physics lab near Geneva, where high-energy protons are smashed into a target. This process produces kaons, which are then observed as they decay into other particles. Scientists reported on September 24 that kaons decayed via the golden channel only 13 times in every 100 billion decays, a rate about 50 percent higher than what the standard model predicts. However, Lazzeroni notes that the result still aligns with the standard model, given the precision of the measurement.

In this extremely rare decay, a kaon produces a pion, along with two lightweight, electrically neutral particles: a neutrino and its antimatter counterpart, an antineutrino. This is in contrast to the more common kaon decay, which typically results in a neutrino and a heavy electron-like particle known as a muon.

While a previous result from the NA62 experiment hinted at this golden channel decay, the latest measurement surpasses the statistical significance needed to confirm its discovery—a milestone known as five sigma. This level of confidence marks a significant achievement in the world of particle physics.

However, the story doesn’t end here. NA62 will continue collecting data to refine its measurements, aiming for even greater precision in the future. This could determine whether the standard model holds up or if it falls short, opening the door to entirely new theories of the universe.

Meanwhile, another experiment, called KOTO, is investigating a different rare kaon decay, which could further enhance our understanding of particle physics.

This discovery is a testament to the power of collaboration and cutting-edge technology in pushing the boundaries of what we know about the universe. As scientists delve deeper into the mysteries of subatomic particles, the possibility of unlocking new physics becomes ever more tantalizing.