PHOTOS Monte Carlo: a precision tool for QED corrections in Z and W decays

Abstract

We present a discussion of the precision for the PHOTOS Monte Carlo algorithm, with improved implementation of QED interference and multiple-photon radiation. The main application of PHOTOS is the generation of QED radiative corrections in decays of any resonances, simulated by a "host" Monte Carlo generator. By careful comparisons automated with the help of the MC-TESTER tool specially tailored for that purpose, we found that the precision of the current version of PHOTOS is of 0.1% in the case of Z and W decays. In the general case, the precision of PHOTOS was also improved, but this will not be quantified here.

Comments: Version 2: -Figure 8a replaced by link to hep-ph/0406006