Evaluation of the theoretical uncertainties in the W → ℓν cross sections at the LHC

Abstract

We study the sources of systematic errors in the measurement of the W → ℓν cross-sections at the LHC. We consider the systematic errors in both the total cross-section and acceptance for anticipated experimental cuts. We include the best available analysis of QCD effects at NNLO in assessing the effect of higher order corrections and PDF and scale uncertainties on the theoretical acceptance. In addition, we evaluate the error due to missing NLO electroweak corrections and propose which MC generators and computational schemes should be implemented to best simulate the events. © 2008 SISSA.