CXII. On the analysis of τ-meson data and the nature of the τ-meson

Abstract

A convenient method of representation is proposed (§ 2) for data on τ-meson decay configurations, applicable when the unlike outgoing π-meson is not distinguished. The relation between the spin and parity of the τ-meson and the distribution of decay configurations is obtained for some simple cases. The hypothesis that the τ- and X-mesons are identical requires a non-zero spin for this particle and the available data on τ-meson decay does not exclude this possibility. However, observations in which the unlike outgoing π-meson is not distinguished are relatively ineffective in discriminating between the various possibilities. The distortions which strong meson-meson attraction may produce in τ-decay configurations are discussed ; the present data offers no evidence on this effect.