CKM Parameters and Rare B Decays

TL;DR

This paper reviews recent experimental measurements of CKM parameters and rare B meson decays, highlighting improvements in precision and new observations that test the Standard Model and probe for new physics.

Contribution

It presents the latest results from Babar and Belle on CKM angles, V_ub, and rare B decay modes, including first-time precise measurements and new decay observations.

Findings

Precise measurement of angle alpha now matches indirect methods.

Significant improvement in V_ub determination accuracy.

First observation of b->d gamma transition by Belle.

Abstract

Measurements of the angles and sides of the unitarity triangle and of the rates of rare B meson decays are crucial for the precise determination of Standard Model parameters and are sensitive to the presence of new physics particles in the loop diagrams. In this paper the recent measurements performed in this area by Babar and Belle will be presented. The direct measurement of the angle alpha is for the first time as precise as the indirect determination. The precision of the V_ub determination has improved significantly with respect to previous measurement. New limits on B->tau nu decays are presented, as well as updated measurements on b->s radiative transitions and a new observation of b->d gamma transition made by Belle.