Exclusive and Inclusive Semileptonic Lambda_b-Decays

Abstract

In this talk we present theoretical evidence that the exclusive/inclusive ratio of semileptonic Lambda_b-decays exceeds that of semileptonic B-decays, where the experimental exclusive/inclusive ratio amounts to about 66%. We start from the observation that the spectator quark model provides a lower bound on the leading order Isgur-Wise function of the Lambda_b -> Lambda_c transition in terms of the corresponding B -> D,D^* mesonic Isgur-Wise function. Using experimental data for the B -> D,D^* mesonic Isgur-Wise functions this bound is established. Applying a QCD sum rule estimate of the Lambda_b -> Lambda_c transition form factor which satisfy the spectator quark model bound we predict the exclusive/inclusive ratio of semileptonic Lambda_b decay rates to lie in a range between 0.81 and 0.89. We also provide an upper bound on the baryonic Isgur-Wise function which is determined from the requirement that the exclusive rate should not exceed the inclusive rate. Our pre-Osaka results are discussed in the light of new recent preliminary experimental results on the pertinent mesonic and baryonic form factors presented at the Osaka ICHEP 2000 Conference.