NNLO QCD corrections to the transverse momentum distribution of weak gauge bosons

TL;DR

This paper calculates NNLO QCD corrections to the transverse momentum distributions of weak gauge bosons, significantly improving theoretical predictions and reducing uncertainties, which enhances the precision of Standard Model tests at the LHC.

Contribution

The paper provides the first NNLO QCD corrections for the inclusive W boson transverse momentum spectrum and related ratios, advancing precision in theoretical predictions.

Findings

NNLO corrections improve agreement with CMS data

Residual scale uncertainties are substantially reduced

Ratios of spectra are more accurately predicted

Abstract

The transverse momentum spectra of weak gauge bosons and their ratios probe the underlying dynamics and are crucial in testing our understanding of the Standard Model. They are an essential ingredient in precision measurements, such as the $\mathrm{W}$-boson mass extraction. To fully exploit the potential of the LHC data, we compute the second-order (NNLO) QCD corrections to the inclusive-$p_\mathrm{T}^\mathrm{W}$ spectrum as well as to the ratios of spectra for $\mathrm{W}^-/\mathrm{W}^+$ and $\mathrm{Z}/\mathrm{W}$. We find that the inclusion of NNLO QCD corrections considerably improves the theoretical description of the experimental CMS data and results in a substantial reduction of the residual scale uncertainties.