Validating NCQE interaction observables with T2K beam data for DSNB search in Super-Kamiokande

Résumé fourni par la source

We use T2K neutral-current quasi-elastic (NCQE) data taken in Super-Kamiokande to validate the cut of atmospheric NCQE events, the dominant background to the Diffuse Supernovae Neutrino Background (DSNB) search. We observe good data–MC agreement for Cherenkov-ring observables and, for the first time in an NCQE analysis, quantify the systematic uncertainty associated with the Multiple Scattering Goodness (MSG). Adding MSG significantly improves background rejection; further improvements are possible by feeding Cherenkov-ring features into a neural-network classifier. Because the T2K Run 11 dataset has limited statistics (\(\mathrm{POT}=1.76\times10^{20}\)), scaling its yields to the full Runs 1–11 exposure (\(\mathrm{POT}=37.97\times10^{20}\)) implies \(\sim400\) NCQE events before cuts and \(\sim10\) after, supporting validation of the selections mentioned here.

Ce résumé expose les affirmations des auteurs. BNTIC ne l’interprète pas comme une validation indépendante des résultats.