π±→ π0+e±+v+ 8mec2?

Abstract

The process π^± → π⁰ + e ^± + v has not yet been observed. Estimates of its branching ratio relative to π+ → μ⁺+v can be derived (1) : from a phese space volume argument in conjunction with the available experimental information on π⁺ and (assumed analogous) K ⁺ processes, and (2): from a calculation of the rate of the beta decay transition between the ‘π⁺’ and ‘π⁰’ states of a bound nucleon-antinucleon structure. A possible experimental scheme for detection of π^± → π⁰ + e ^± + v in the presence of the overwhelmingly more frequent π^± → π⁰ + e ^± + v is outlined.