New Physics in $b to s mu^+ mu^-$ after the Measurement of $R_{K^*}$


Abstract in English

The recent measurement of $R_{K^*}$ is yet another hint of new physics (NP), and supports the idea that it is present in $bto smu^+mu^-$ decays. We perform a combined model-independent and model-dependent analysis in order to deduce properties of this NP. Like others, we find that the NP must obey one of two scenarios: (I) $C_9^{mumu}({rm NP}) < 0$ or (II) $C_9^{mumu}({rm NP}) = - C_{10}^{mumu}({rm NP}) < 0$. A third scenario, (III) $C_9^{mumu}({rm NP}) = - C_{9}^{prime mumu}({rm NP})$, is rejected largely because it predicts $R_K = 1$, in disagreement with experiment. The simplest NP models involve the tree-level exchange of a leptoquark (LQ) or a $Z$ boson. We show that scenario (II) can arise in LQ or $Z$ models, but scenario (I) is only possible with a $Z$. Fits to $Z$ models must take into account the additional constraints from $B^0_s$-${bar B}^0_s$ mixing and neutrino trident production. Although the LQs must be heavy, O(TeV), we find that the $Z$ can be light, e.g., $M_{Z} = 10$ GeV or 200 MeV.

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