Is there a non-Standard-Model contribution in non-leptonic b -> s decays?

TL;DR

This paper examines whether small discrepancies in non-leptonic b -> s decays could indicate new physics beyond the Standard Model by analyzing CP asymmetries and branching fractions without relying on specific models.

Contribution

It provides a model-independent analysis of how observed deviations in b -> s decays constrain potential new physics contributions to quark operators.

Findings

Discrepancies may suggest possible new physics contributions.

Different quark flavors impact the constraints on new physics.

Quantitative comparison of flavor contributions to decay anomalies.

Abstract

Precision measurements of branching fractions and CP asymmetries in non-leptonic b -> s decays reveal certain "puzzles" when compared with Standard Model expectations based on a global fit of the CKM triangle and general theoretical expectations. Without reference to a particular model, we investigate to what extent the (small) discrepancies observed in (B -> J/psi K), (B -> phi K) and (B -> K pi) may constrain new physics in (b -> s q qbar) operators. In particular, we compare on a quantitative level the relative impact of different quark flavours q=c,s,u,d.