Top polarization, forward-backward asymmetry and new physics

TL;DR

This paper explores how top polarization measurements at the Tevatron can distinguish between various new physics models explaining the top forward-backward asymmetry, using asymmetry-based observables and discussing potential signals at the LHC.

Contribution

It introduces a method to discriminate among new physics models via top polarization and asymmetry observables, including analysis relevant for LHC signals.

Findings

Top polarization can effectively differentiate new physics models.

Asymmetry-based observables remain useful despite statistical errors.

Potential signals at the 7 TeV LHC are discussed.

Abstract

We consider how the measurement of top polarization at the Tevatron can be used to characterise and discriminate among different new physics models that have been suggested to explain the anomalous top forward-backward asymmetry reported at the Tevatron. This has the advantage of catching the essence of the parity violating effect characteristic to the different suggested new physics models. Other observables constructed from these asymmetries are shown to be useful in discriminating between the models, even after taking into account the statistical errors. Finally, we discuss some signals at the 7 TeV LHC.