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In the decay $\rho_0\rightarrow \pi^+ + \pi^-$ the $\rho_0$ has total angular momentum 1 and the $\pi^\pm$ both have spin zero.

In order to conserve total angular momentum, the pions must therefore have a net orbital momentum of 1. Does this mean that charged pions have non-integer orbital angular momentum?

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The two pions are produced in a system with an orbital angular momentum of 1 about each other. Orbital angular momentum is a property of two particles, though for familiar electrons in atoms the partner is the nucleus so it's not mentioned.

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  • $\begingroup$ Thanks for the comment. I didn't specific the total angular momentum of the rho, but you are correct that it is 1 $\endgroup$
    – Arty
    Commented May 16, 2018 at 18:18

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