Scalar interaction limits from the β-ν correlation of trapped radioactive atoms

A. Gorelov, D. Melconian, W. P. Alford, D. Ashery, G. Ball, J. A. Behr, P. G. Bricault, J. M. D'Auria, J. Deutsch, J. Dilling, M. Dombsky, P. Dubé, J. Fingler, U. Giesen, F. Glück, S. Gu, O. Häusser, K. P. Jackson, B. K. Jennings, M. R. PearsonT. J. Stocki, T. B. Swanson, M. Trinczek

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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 languageEnglish
Article number142501
JournalPhysical Review Letters
Volume94
Issue number14
DOIs
StatePublished - Apr 15 2005
Externally publishedYes

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