Kaon decays in the standard model

Abstract

A comprehensive overview of kaon decays is presented. The standard model predictions are discussed in detail, covering both the underlying short-distance electroweak dynamics and the important interplay of QCD at long distances. Chiral perturbation theory provides a universal framework for treating leptonic, semileptonic, and nonleptonic decays including rare and radiative modes. All allowed decay modes with branching ratios of at least 10 -11 are analyzed. Some decays with even smaller rates are also included. Decays that are strictly forbidden in the standard model are not considered in this review. The present experimental status and the prospects for future improvements are reviewed. © 2012 American Physical Society.