The Quantum Numbers of the ω-Meson

Summary

In the analysis of the experimental material concerning the 3-pion resonance state, called ω-meson, the G-parity is an important quantum number. If only states with spin < 2 are considered, eight states have to be discussed. Only the symmetries 0^-+ and 1^-- seem to be compatible with the available material. The Dalitz plot favours slightly the symmetry 1^--; the small width of the ω-resonance line favours slightly 0^-+. A decision can probably be reached by studying the ratio R = (ω → neutrals)/(ω → π⁺ + π^- + π⁰), which should be very small for 1^--, but of the order of unity for 0^--. If further experiments will confirm the slight indications in earlier reports, that the disintegration of ω into neutral particles does play an essential rôle in the decay of the ω-meson, the symmetry 1^-- would be ruled out.