Penguin Contractions and Factorization in B -> K pi Decays

Abstract

We study Lambda_{QCD}/m_B corrections to factorization in B -> K pi decays. First, we analyze these decay channels within factorization, showing that, irrespectively of the value of gamma, it is not possible to reproduce the experimental data. Then, we discuss Lambda_{QCD}/m_B corrections to these processes, and argue that there is a class of doubly Cabibbo enhanced non-factorizable contributions, usually called charming penguins, that cannot be neglected. Including these corrections, we obtain an excellent agreement with experimental data. Furthermore, contrary to what is obtained with factorization, we predict sizable rate asymmetries in B^\pm -> K^\pm \pi^0 and B -> K^\pm pi^\mp.