Beta Decays and Non-Standard Interactions in the LHC Era

TL;DR

This paper reviews how precision beta decay and meson decay measurements serve as complementary probes for new physics beyond the Standard Model, especially in the context of LHC findings.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive effective field theory framework for analyzing low-energy charged-current processes and discusses their role alongside LHC searches in new physics exploration.

Findings

Current constraints on non-standard operators from decay measurements

Theoretical hadronic inputs are crucial for interpreting precision tests

Beta decay measurements remain vital in the LHC era for new physics searches

Abstract

We consider the role of precision measurements of beta decays and light meson semi-leptonic decays in probing physics beyond the Standard Model in the LHC era. We describe all low-energy charged-current processes within and beyond the Standard Model using an effective field theory framework. We first discuss the theoretical hadronic input which in these precision tests plays a crucial role in setting the baseline for new physics searches. We then review the current and upcoming constraints on the various non-standard operators from the study of decay rates, spectra, and correlations in a broad array of light-quark systems. We finally discuss the interplay with LHC searches, both within models and in an effective theory approach. Our discussion illustrates the independent yet complementary nature of precision beta decay measurements as probes of new physics, showing them to be of continuing importance throughout the LHC era.