Exclusive and Inclusive Semileptonic Lambda_b-Decays

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.
Talk given by J.G. Koerner at 4th International Conference on Hyperons, Charm and Beauty Hadrons, Valencia, Spain, 27-30 Jun 2000; 7 pages