Phase Space Factors for Double Beta Decay: an up-date

Abstract

We give a complete, up-date list of the phase space factors (PSF) for beta-beta-, beta+beta+, EC beta+ and ECEC double beta decay (DBD) modes, in all nuclei of interest and possible transitions to final states. In calculation, the Coulomb distortion of the electron wave functions is treated by solving numerically the Dirac equation with inclusion of the finite nuclear size and electron screening effects. In addition to the previous calculations we use a Coulomb potential derived from a realistic proton density distribution in nucleus, improve the precision of the numerical routines used to solve the Dirac equations and to integrate the PSF expressions, and use recently reported Q-values. These ingredients proved to be important, leading in many cases to significant differences as compared to the present available PSF values, which are discussed as well. Accurate values of the PSF are necessary ingredients both for theorists, to improve the DBD lifetime predictions and constraint the neutrino parameters, and for experimentalists to plan their set-ups.