Abstract
We have set limits on contributions of scalar interactions to nuclear β decay. A magneto-optical trap provides a localized source of atoms suspended in space, so the low-energy recoiling nuclei can freely escape and be detected in coincidence with the β. This allows reconstruction of the neutrino momentum, and the measurement of the β-ν correlation, in a more direct fashion than previously possible. The β-ν correlation parameter of the 0+ → 0+ pure Fermi decay of 38Km is ã= 0.9981 ± 0.0030 -0.0037+0.0032, consistent with the standard model prediction ã = 1.
Original language | English |
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Article number | 142501 |
Journal | Physical Review Letters |
Volume | 94 |
Issue number | 14 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Apr 15 2005 |
Externally published | Yes |