Theoretical status of $B \to K^* \mu^+\mu^-$: The path towards New Physics

TL;DR

This paper reviews the analysis of the decay process B to K* mu+ mu- using optimized observables, interprets deviations as potential signs of New Physics, and discusses uncertainties and tests for alternative explanations.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive analysis of angular observables in B to K* mu+ mu- decays, highlighting deviations from the Standard Model and exploring New Physics scenarios.

Findings

Deviations observed in 1fb$^{-1}$ dataset suggest possible New Physics effects.

The coefficient of the semileptonic operator $O_9$ is identified as a key factor.

Detailed hadronic uncertainty analysis and SM predictions are provided.

Abstract

We summarize the status of the analysis of the 4-body angular distribution $B \to K^*(\to K \pi) \mu^+\mu^-$ using a basis of optimized observables. We provide a New Physics interpretation of the pattern of deviations observed in the 1fb$^{-1}$ dataset with the coefficient of the semileptonic operator $O_9$ being the main responsible for this pattern. Also other scenarios involving more Wilson coefficients are briefly discussed. Further, we present a detailed description of each of the hadronic uncertainties entering our predictions and suggest possible tests for alternative hadronic explanations. Our most accurate SM predictions for the optimized observables in various bins including all uncertainties are also provided.