Polishing a shiny Higgs with matrix elements

TL;DR

This paper introduces a matrix element method to significantly improve the separation of Higgs signal from background in LHC data, enabling more precise coupling measurements.

Contribution

The paper presents a novel application of the matrix element method to enhance signal-to-background ratio in Higgs boson analyses at the LHC.

Findings

Achieved ~100% increase in S/B for Higgs to gamma gamma with jets channel.

Demonstrated robustness against detector resolution effects.

Provided a reliable method for Higgs coupling extraction.

Abstract

After the recent discovery of a Standard Model Higgs boson-like particle at the LHC, the question of its couplings to known and unknown matter is eminent. In this letter, we present a method that allows for an enhancement in S/B(irreducible) of the order of 100% in $pp\to (h\to \gamma\gamma) jj$ for a center of mass energy of 8 and 14 TeV. This is achieved by applying the matrix element method. We discuss the implications of detector resolution effects and various approximations of the involved event simulation and reconstruction. The matrix element method provides a reliable, stable, and efficient handle to separate signal from background, and the gluon and weak boson fusion components involved in this process. Employing this method, a more precise Higgs boson coupling extraction can be obtained, and our results are of immediate relevance for current searches.