New Physics Contributions to The B -> phi K_S Decay

Abstract

Recent measurements of the time-dependent CP asymmetry of the B -> phi K_S decay give results whose central values differ from standard model expectations. It is shown how such data can be used to identify new physics contributions in a model-independent manner. In general, a sizeable new amplitude with nontrivial weak and strong phases would be required to explain current data. Improvement in the quality of data will allow one to form a more definite conclusion.

Comments: 17 pages, 7 figures; some references added; analysis updated in light of recent BaBar data announced at Moriond conference