Precision tests of fundamental physics with η and η′ mesons

Decays of the neutral and long-lived eta and eta ' mesons provide a unique, flavor-conserving laboratory to test low-energy Quantum Chromodynamics and search for new physics beyond the Standard Model. They have drawn world-wide attention in recent years and have inspired broad experimental programs in different high-intensity-frontier centers. New experimental data will offer critical inputs to precisely determine the light quark mass ratios, eta-eta ' mixing parameters, and hadronic contributions to the anomalous magnetic moment of the muon. At the same time, it will provide a sensitive probe to test potential new physics. This includes searches for hidden photons, light Higgs scalars, and axion-like particles that are complementary to worldwide efforts to detect new light particles below the GeV mass scale, as well as tests of discrete symmetry violation. In this review, we give an update on theoretical developments, discuss the experimental opportunities, and identify future research needed in this field. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Automated summary

Decays of neutral and long-lived eta and eta ' mesons are a unique laboratory to test low-energy Quantum Chromodynamics and search for new physics beyond the Standard Model. New experimental data will offer critical inputs to precisely determine light quark mass ratios, eta-eta ' mixing parameters, and hadronic contributions to the anomalous magnetic moment of the muon. These decays also provide a sensitive probe to test potential new physics, including searches for hidden photons, light Higgs scalars, and axion-like particles.