Full NLO predictions for vector-boson scattering into Z bosons and its irreducible background at the LHC

Abstract

Abstract Vector-boson scattering into two Z bosons at the LHC is a key channel for the exploration of the electroweak sector of the Standard Model. It allows for the full reconstruction of the scattering process but at the price of a huge irreducible background. For the first time, we present full next-to-leading-order predictions for pp → e+e−μ+μ−jj + X including all electroweak and QCD contributions for vector-boson scattering signal and irreducible background. The results are presented in the form of cross sections and differential distributions. A particular emphasis is put on the newly computed ($$ {\alpha}_{\mathrm{s}}^2 $$ α s 2 α5) corrections.