Search for $\eta_{c}^{\prime}$ decays into vector meson pairs

TL;DR

This study searches for specific decay modes of the $eta_c'$ particle into vector meson pairs using a large data sample, finding no signals but setting upper limits that challenge existing theoretical models.

Contribution

First experimental search for $eta_c'$ decays into vector meson pairs with stringent upper limits, providing constraints on theoretical predictions.

Findings

No signals observed in the three decay modes.

Upper limits on branching fractions are lower than theoretical predictions.

Results set new constraints for future theoretical and experimental studies.

Abstract

The processes $\etacpto \rho^{0}\rho^{0}$, $K^{*0}\bar{K}^{*0}$, and $\phi\phi$ are searched for using a sample of $1.06 \times 10^8$ $\psip$ events collected with the BESIII detector at the BEPCII collider. No signals are observed in any of the three final states. The upper limits on the decay branching fractions are determined to be $\mathcal{B}(\etacpto\rho^{0}\rho^{0})<3.1\times10^{-3}$, $\mathcal{B}(\etacpto K^{*0}\bar{K}^{*0})<5.4 \times10^{-3}$, and $\mathcal{B}(\etacpto\phi\phi)<2.0\times10^{-3}$ at the 90% confidence level. The upper limits are lower than the existing theoretical predictions.