Evidence for an excess of B̄→D( *)τ -ν ̄τ decays

Abstract

Based on the full BABAR data sample, we report improved measurements of the ratios R(D( *)=B(B̄→D( *)τ -ν ̄τ)/B(B̄→D( *)- ν ̄), where ¢ is either e or μ. These ratios are sensitive to new physics contributions in the form of a charged Higgs boson. We measure R(D)=0.440±0.058±0.042 and R(D *)=0. 332±0.024±0.018, which exceed the standard model expectations by 2.0σ and 2.7σ, respectively. Taken together, our results disagree with these expectations at the 3.4σ level. This excess cannot be explained by a charged Higgs boson in the type II two-Higgs-doublet model. © 2012 American Physical Society.