Towards a differential $\mathrm{t\bar{t}W}$ cross section measurement at CMS

TL;DR

This paper discusses the challenges and proposes a framework for future differential measurements of the rare top quark pair production with a W boson at CMS, aiming to resolve discrepancies between observed and predicted cross sections.

Contribution

It introduces a new framework for differential measurement of the t-tbar-W process using CMS Run 2 data, addressing experimental and theoretical challenges.

Findings

Current measurements exceed theoretical predictions

Framework aims to improve understanding of t-tbar-W production

Proposes future differential measurement with CMS data

Abstract

Top quark pair production in association with a W boson is a rare standard model process that has proven to be an intriguing puzzle for theorists and experimentalists alike. Recent measurements, performed at $\sqrt{s}$ = 13 TeV, by both the ATLAS and CMS Collaborations at the CERN LHC, find cross section values that are consistently higher than the latest state-of-the-art theory predictions. In this presentation, both experimental and theoretical challenges in the pursuit of a better understanding of this process are discussed. Furthermore, a framework for a future differential measurement to be performed with the Run 2 CMS data (collected in 2016-2018) is proposed.