A discussion on vacuum polarization correction to the cross-section of $e^+e^-\to\gamma^\ast/\psi\to\mu^+\mu^-$

Abstract

Vacuum polarization is a part of the initial-state radiative correction for the cross-section of $e^+e^-$ annihilation processes. In the energy region in the vicinity of narrow resonances $J/\psi$ and $\psi(3686)$, the vacuum polarization contribution from the resonant component has a significant effect on the line-shape of the lepton pair production cross-section. This paper discusses some basic concepts and describes an analytical calculation of the cross-section of $e^+e^-\to\gamma^\ast/\psi\to\mu^+\mu^-$ considering the single and double vacuum polarization effect of the virtual photon propagator. Moreover, it presents some numerical comparisons with the traditional treatments.