The $Z\to b\bar{b}$ Decay Asymmetry and Left-Right Models

Abstract

It has been pointed out recently by Chanowitz that the $Z\to b\bar{b}$ decay asymmetry poses a problem for the standard model whether it is genuine or not [Chanowitz:2001bv]. If this conflict is interpreted as new physics in the b-quark couplings, it suggests a rather large right handed coupling of the b-quark to the Z-boson. We show that it is possible to accommodate this result in left-right models that single out the third generation.

Comments: 18 pages, Revtex. Version to appear in PRD, One figure added