A New World Average Value for the Neutron Lifetime

TL;DR

This paper analyzes neutron lifetime measurements, identifies systematic errors, and proposes a new world average value of 879.9 seconds, improving accuracy and consistency in the field.

Contribution

It introduces a revised neutron lifetime average by analyzing existing data, correcting systematic errors, and performing Monte Carlo simulations.

Findings

New neutron lifetime value: 879.9 +/- 0.9 s

Systematic errors of about -6 s identified in experiments

Discrepancy of 6.5 standard deviations with previous averages

Abstract

The analysis of the data on measurements of the neutron lifetime is presented. A new most accurate result of the measurement of neutron lifetime [Phys. Lett. B 605 (2005) 72] 878.5 +/- 0.8 s differs from the world average value [Phys. Lett. B 667 (2008) 1] 885.7 +/- 0.8 s by 6.5 standard deviations. In this connection the analysis and Monte Carlo simulation of experiments [Phys. Lett. B 483 (2000) 15] and [Phys. Rev. Lett. 63 (1989) 593] is carried out. Systematic errors of about -6 s are found in each of the experiments. The summary table for the neutron lifetime measurements after corrections and additions is given. A new world average value for the neutron lifetime 879.9 +/- 0.9 s is presented.