CP Violation in B Decays within QCD Factorization

Abstract

We analyze the extraction of weak phases from CP violation in $B\to\pi^+\pi^-$ decays. By combining the information on mixing induced CP violation in $B\to\pi^+\pi^-$, namely $S_{\pi\pi}$, with the precision observable $\sin 2\beta$ obtained from the ``gold-plated''mode $B\to\psi K_S$, we propose the determination of the unitarity triangle. We also discuss alternative ways to analyze $S_{\pi\pi}$ which can be useful if new physics affects $B_d$--$\bar B_d$ mixing. Predictions and uncertainties for $r$ and $\phi$ in QCD factorization are examined in detail. It is pointed out that a simultaneous expansion in $1/m_b$ and $1/N_C$ leads to interesting simplifications. At first order infrared divergences are absent, while the most important effects are retained. Independent experimental tests of the factorization framework are briefly discussed.