Electron-positron scattering at finite temperature in Podolsky electrodynamics

Abstract: The electron-positron annihilation process is investigated within the framework of Podolsky's generalized electrodynamics at finite temperature. In this theory, a higher-derivative term modifies the photonic kinetic sector, introducing a massive mode while preserving gauge invariance. Thermal effects are incorporated using the real-time Thermo Field Dynamics formalism. The total cross section is calculated, and the individual contributions of the Podolsky parameter and thermal effects are analyzed to highlight their influence on the scattering process.