S-Channel Process: a+b->c+d Diagrams

In summary, there are two time-ordered diagrams for the s-channel in a certain process where a+b->c+d. One is associated with annihilation, while the second involves a photon traveling "back in time" and producing c and d. These diagrams differ in the ordering of the vertices and the usual Feynman diagram combines them into a single expression.
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Silviu
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Hello I encountered a problem in which it is specify that there are 2 time-ordered diagram for the s-channel for a certain process a+b->c+d. I understand that there is the one that can be associated with annihilation, but what would be a second one?

Thank you!
 
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  • #2
Silviu said:
Hello I encountered a problem in which it is specify that there are 2 time-ordered diagram for the s-channel for a certain process a+b->c+d. I understand that there is the one that can be associated with annihilation, but what would be a second one?

Thank you!
If you are working with time-ordered diagrams, things are different than with usual Feynman diagrams.
One of the time ordered diagrams is the one you have in mind. For the second, a and b annihilate into a photon (or whatever you are dealing with), this photon travels then the left (it travels "back in time") and then it produces c and d. In other words, in time ordered diagrams, the time ordering of the vertices is crucial, having the vertex "a+b to a photon" before the vertex "photon to c+d" is different from the other ordering. The usual Feynman diagram combines these two into a single expression.
 
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Related to S-Channel Process: a+b->c+d Diagrams

What is the "S-Channel Process" in physics?

The S-Channel process, also known as the s-channel resonance or the s-channel production, is a type of particle interaction in high energy physics. It involves the collision of two particles (a and b) resulting in the creation of two new particles (c and d).

How does the "S-Channel Process" work?

In the S-Channel process, the two colliding particles (a and b) exchange a virtual particle (usually a boson) which carries the energy and momentum necessary for the creation of the two new particles (c and d). This exchange is known as a resonance and is responsible for the peak observed in the energy distribution of the produced particles.

What is the significance of the "S-Channel Process" in particle physics?

The S-Channel process is an important tool for studying the fundamental building blocks of matter and their interactions. By analyzing the energy and momentum of the produced particles, scientists can gain insights into the properties and behavior of the particles involved, as well as test the predictions of various theories and models in particle physics.

What is a "a+b->c+d" diagram in the context of the "S-Channel Process"?

A "a+b->c+d" diagram is a graphical representation of the S-Channel process, depicting the initial particles (a and b) and the final particles (c and d) involved in the interaction. It also includes the virtual particle exchanged between the two colliding particles. These diagrams are commonly used in particle physics to visualize and analyze particle interactions.

What are some real-life applications of the "S-Channel Process"?

The S-Channel process has various applications in fields such as medical imaging, nuclear power, and astrophysics. For example, the production of positron-emitting isotopes through the S-Channel process is used in positron emission tomography (PET) scans to diagnose and monitor various diseases. In nuclear power plants, the S-Channel process is used to produce neutrons that are essential for fission reactions. Additionally, the S-Channel process plays a role in the production of high-energy particles in astrophysical phenomena such as supernovae and active galactic nuclei.

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