alpha_s From the Lattice and Hadronic Tau Decays

Abstract

Until recently, determinations of alpha_s(M_Z) from hadronic tau decays and the analysis of short-distance-sensitive lattice observables yielded results which, though precise, were not in good agreement. I review new analyses that bring these into good agreement and provide some details on the source of the main changes in the tau decay analysis.

Comments: 4 pages, prepared for the proceedings of CIPANP 09, San Diego, USA, March 26-31, 2009