Coherent muon-electron conversion in muonic atoms

Abstract

Transition rates for coherent muon-electron conversion in muonic atoms, mu+N --> e+N, are computed for various types of muon number violating interactions. Attention is paid to relativistic atomic effects, Coulomb distortion, finite nuclear size, and nucleon distributions. Discrepancies with previously published results are pointed out and explained. Results are presented for several elements of current and future experimental interest.