Techniques for multiboson interferometry

TL;DR

This paper introduces techniques for analyzing three- and four-pion quantum statistics correlations, enabling better study of quantum coherence effects in high-energy collision sources.

Contribution

It presents novel methods, including built correlation functions, to isolate and analyze higher-order boson correlations beyond two-pion measurements.

Findings

New techniques for 3- and 4-pion correlation analysis

Enhanced understanding of quantum coherence effects

Methodology applicable to high-energy collision experiments

Abstract

The quantum statistics (QS) correlations of identical bosons are well known to be sensitive to the space-time extent and dynamics of the particle emitting source in high-energy collisions. While two-pion correlations are most often experimentally measured, the QS correlations of three-pions and higher are rarely explored. We present a set of techniques to isolate and analyze 3- and 4-pion QS correlations. In particular, the technique of built correlation functions allows one to more easily study the effects of quantum coherence at finite relative momenta instead of at the unmeasured intercept of correlation functions.