Abstract
The experimental data on the decay of mesons is summarized on a convenient two-dimensional plot, both (a) when the -meson charges are known and (b) when they are not. Some events may be included in plot (a) only if the parent meson is assumed positive and arguments supporting this identification for mesons decaying in an emulsion are discussed. The dependence of this plot on the -meson spin () and parity () is discussed in general terms and those features depending particularly on and on its relation with are emphasized—for example, if the density of events does not vanish at the bottom of the plot, the meson must have odd parity and even spin. Simple estimates of the distribution, using only the lowest allowable angular momenta and a "short range" approximation, may be modified by final-state meson-meson attractions, whose effects are discussed qualitatively. The available data are insufficient for any strong conclusion to be drawn but rather suggest even spin and odd parity for the meson; the need for careful assessment of geometrical bias in the selection of experimental material is stressed.
- Received 9 February 1954
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRev.94.1046
©1954 American Physical Society