Vector Awkward

Overview

Create Awkward Arrays that behave like vector objects and use vector methods without writing custom kinematic math. Use these steps to register behaviors, build records with the right field names, and perform common HEP operations like deltaR and invariant mass.

Quick Start

1. Register vector behaviors once per session:

import vector
vector.register_awkward()

1. Build vector records with standard field names and a vector type name:

import awkward as ak

events = ak.Array({
    "electron": ak.zip(
        {"pt": [50.0, 30.2], "eta": [1.4, -0.8], "phi": [2.1, 0.5], "mass": [0.0005, 0.0005]},
        with_name="Momentum4D",
    )
})

Build Vector Records

• Use ak.zip(..., with_name="Momentum3D") for 3D operations like deltaR.
• Use ak.zip(..., with_name="Momentum4D") for 4D operations like invariant mass or boosts.
• Prefer standard names like pt/eta/phi/mass or px/py/pz/E so vector can infer coordinate systems.
• Call vector.register_awkward() before accessing vector properties or methods.

Access Vector Properties

particles = ak.zip({"px": px, "py": py, "pz": pz, "E": E}, with_name="Vector4D")
particles.pt
particles.phi
particles.eta
particles.mass

Common Operations

Calculate deltaR between two collections:

pairs = ak.cartesian([events.electron, events.muon])
electrons, muons = ak.unzip(pairs)
dR = electrons.deltaR(muons)

Combine 4-vectors and compute invariant mass:

first_e, second_e = ak.unzip(ak.combinations(events.electron, 2))
inv_mass = (first_e + second_e).mass

Boost to a parent rest frame:

parent = particle1 + particle2
particle1_rf = particle1.boostCM_of_p4(parent)

Reference Material

Load references/vector-hints.md for more examples, method notes, and advanced snippets.