Moments for positivity: using Drell-Yan data to test positivity bounds and reverse-engineer new physics

A bstract Moments of the leptonic angular distribution in Drell-Yan process have recently been shown to be sensitive probes a specific class dimension-8, four-fermion operators Standard Model Effective Field Theory, involving pair quarks and leptons. The same are also subject positivity bounds, when requiring associated (unknown) UV completion obey basic principles quantum field theory. We perform phenomenological study quantify sensitivity high-luminosity LHC this set and, by extension, bounds. further extend basis moments consider double differential information improve ability disentangle different operators, leading new physics scales up 3 TeV. use explore violation at as way test underlying Finally, we present case which combines our results with from other (current prospective) experiments, well cone infer properties possible tree-level completions. data lead robust, model-independent lower bounds on $$ M/\sqrt{g} M / g combination particle mass coupling, for states that couple right-handed leptons and/or quarks.