Calculated corrections to superallowed Fermi beta decay: New evaluation of the nuclear-structure-dependent terms
Academic Article
Overview
Research
Identity
Additional Document Info
Other
View All
Overview
abstract
The measured [Formula Presented] values for superallowed [Formula Presented] nuclear [Formula Presented] decay can be used to obtain the value of the vector coupling constant and thus to test the unitarity of the Cabibbo-Kobayashi-Maskawa matrix. An essential requirement for this test is accurate calculations for the radiative and isospin symmetry-breaking corrections that must be applied to the experimental data. We present a new and consistent set of calculations for the nuclear-structure-dependent components of these corrections. These new results do not alter the current status of the unitarity testit still fails by more than two standard deviationsbut they provide calculated corrections for eleven new superallowed transitions that are likely to become accessible to precise measurements in the future. The reliability of all calculated corrections is explored and an experimental method indicated by which the structure-dependent corrections can be tested and, if necessary, improved. 2002 The American Physical Society.
