Improved variables for measuring the $Lambda_b$ polarization

Abstract

We discuss a few possible strategies for measuring the polarization of the $\Lambda_{\mathrm{b}}$ baryons produced in $e^+e^-$-annihilation at the $\mathrm{Z}$ resonance through their inclusive semileptonic decays. After reviewing the existing methods, a new method is proposed, based on the ratio of the averages of the squared electron and neutrino energy, including both perturbative and nonperturbative corrections. This variable minimizes the statistical error on the $\Lambda_{\mathrm{b}}$ polarization, while keeping the systematic theoretical errors at the level of 1-2%. A number of other polarization-sensitive variables are also discussed, such as averages of ratios of the electron and neutrino energy and the distribution in the difference of the electron and neutrino rapidities.Comment: 23 pages, 4 uuencoded figures, REVTe