Identification of $\Lambda \rightarrow p \mu^- \bar{\nu}_{\mu}$ events using particle tracking detectors

Study of semi-leptonic hyperon decays could reveal possible disagreements with Standard Model (SM) predictions in which lepton universality (LFU) is presumed. Modern nuclear physics experiments such as CLAS and Glue-X have the capability to produce and reconstruct hyperons, including the $\Lambda$ baryon, in large numbers, however identification of semi-leptonic decay events such as $\Lambda \rightarrow p \mu^- \bar{\nu}_{\mu}$ is difficult for two reasons. First, the missing momentum carried by the neutrino decreases kinematic constraints. Second, the background of hadronic decay events in which the pion decays via $\pi^- \rightarrow \mu^- \bar{\nu}_{\mu}$ in proximity to the $\Lambda$ decay vertex necessitates the use of vertexing information. We present a set of techniques, developed in a Monte Carlo-based analysis, for separating small semi-leptonic decay signal from much more prevalent hadronic decay backgrounds. These techniques rely on kinematic observables and, more crucially, tracking and vertexing information. In addition we present a study of signal/background separability and its dependance on a detector's vertexing resolution.