On a CP Anisotropy Measurement in the Dalitz Plot

Abstract

We describe a novel use of the Dalitz plot to probe CP symmetry in three-body modes of $B$ and $D$ mesons. It is based on an observable inspired by astronomers' practice, namely the significance in the difference between corresponding Dalitz plot bins. It provides a model independent mapping of local CP asymmetries. We illustrate the method for probing CP symmetry in the complementary cases of B decays, where sizable or even large effects can be expected, yet have to be differentiated against leading Standard Model contributions, and $D$ decays, where one cannot count on sizable effects, yet has to deal with much less Standard Model background.

27 pages, 16 figures Version that will appear in PRD, that typos have been corrected, references and clarifications added