Search for Third Generation Vector Leptoquarks in p anti-p Collisions at sqrt(s) = 1.96 TeV

TL;DR

This paper reports a search for third generation vector leptoquarks decaying to b quarks and tau leptons using Fermilab Tevatron data, setting new mass limits and cross section constraints.

Contribution

First search for third generation vector leptoquarks in proton-antiproton collisions at 1.96 TeV, establishing the most stringent upper limits on their production cross section and mass.

Findings

No excess events observed beyond Standard Model expectations.

Lower mass limit for VLQ3 set at 317 GeV/c^2.

Upper cross section limit established at 344 fb.

Abstract

We describe a search for a third generation vector leptoquark (VLQ3) that decays to a b quark and tau lepton using the CDF II detector and 322 pb^(-1) of integrated luminosity from the Fermilab Tevatron. Vector leptoquarks have been proposed in many extensions of the standard model (SM). Observing a number of events in agreement with SM expectations, assuming Yang-Mills (minimal) couplings, we obtain the most stringent upper limit on the VLQ3 pair production cross section of 344 fb (493 fb) and lower limit on the VLQ3 mass of 317 GeV/c^2 (251 GeV/c^2) at 95% C.L.