Model-Independent Extraction of |V_{cb}| Using Dispersion Relations

Abstract

We present a method for parametrizing heavy meson semileptonic form factors using dispersion relations, and from it produce a two-parameter description of the B -> B elastic form factor. We use heavy quark symmetry to relate this function to B->D* l \nu form factors, and extract |V_{cb}|=0.037^{+0.003}_{-0.002} from experimental data with a least squares fit. Our method eliminates model-dependent uncertainties inherent in choosing a parametrization for the extrapolation of the differential decay rate to threshold. The method also allows a description of B -> D l nu form factors accurate to 1% in terms of two parameters.