Search for New Physics through the Observables of Semileptonic $B_{c}^+\to D^{\ast+}\ell^{+}\ell^{-}$ Decay

Abstract Motivated by the current flavor anomalies and the comparatively less explored nature of the $b\to d$ sector, we present a model-independent study of the rare semileptonic $B_c^{+}\to D^{\ast+}\ell^{+}\ell^{-}$ ($\ell=\mu,\tau$) decay, to investigate its sensitivity to New Physics effects. The analysis incorporates penguin-box contributions, long-distance resonance effects, and the sizable weak-annihilation amplitudes. Using the $B_c\to D^\ast$ transition form factors calculated in the covariant confined quark model and the weak-annihilation form factors obtained within the Bethe--Salpeter approach, we analyze the differential branching fraction, forward-backward asymmetry, longitudinal helicity fraction, and a comprehensive set of normalized angular observables in several one- and two-dimensional New Physics scenarios and compare our results with the Standard Model predictions. Notably, the branching fraction, forward-backward asymmetry, and the normalized angular coefficients such as, $\langle I_{2c}\rangle$, $\langle I_{3}\rangle$, $\langle I_{5}\rangle$, and $\langle I_{6s} \rangle$, show clear sensitivity to New Physics effects. Our results indicate that the decay $B_c^{+}\to D^{\ast+}\ell^{+}\ell^{-}$ serves as a complementary probe of the flavor structure of New Physics and can therefore be investigated in future measurements at LHCb and other high-luminosity flavor experiments. Content from this work may be used under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 licence. Any further distribution of this work must maintain attribution to the author(s) and the title of the work, journal citation and DOI. Article funded by SCOAP3 and published under licence by Chinese Physical Society and the Institute of High Energy Physics of the Chinese Academy of Science and the Institute of Modern Physics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and IOP Publishing Ltd.