Rethinking the $P_c(4457)^+$ as the $P_{\psi}^{\Delta^+}(4457)$ isoquartet $\bar{D}^* \Sigma_c$ molecule

Abstract

The nature of the $P_{c}(4312)$, $P_c(4440)$ and $P_c(4457)$ pentaquarks is a fascinating theoretical question. Within the molecular picture their more usual interpretation is that of $I=\tfrac{1}{2}$ $\bar{D} \Sigma_c$ and $\bar{D}^* \Sigma_c$ bound states. Here we argue in favor of interpreting the $P_c(4457)$ pentaquark as a $I=\tfrac{3}{2}$ $\bar{D}^* \Sigma_c$ bound state (with spin $J=\tfrac{1}{2}$) instead. Owing to isospin symmetry breaking effects, with this identification the partial decay width of the $P_c(4457)^+$ into $J/\psi p$ will be of the same order of magnitude as the $P_{c}(4312)^+$ and $P_c(4440)^+$, in contrast with the considerably larger partial decay width in the $I=\tfrac{1}{2}$ scenario. In turn, this leads to a different hidden-charm molecular pentaquark spectrum, in which there are only four or five $P_{\psi}^N$ bound states instead of the usual seven, which might explain why the predicted $J=\tfrac{1}{2}$ and $\tfrac{3}{2}$ ($I=\tfrac{1}{2}$) $\bar{D}^* \Sigma_c^*$ molecular partners of the $P_c(4312)$ and $P_c(4440)$ have not been observed.