A model for the reaction KN→QN

Abstract

A model for the reactions Kp → Qp is given assuming dominance of pomeron and ω, f exchanges. The coupling of the pomeron is taken in accord with s-channel helicity conservation (SCHC) and both real and imaginary parts of the SCH amplitudes for ω and f exchange have a t-structure in accord with amplitude analyses. The model was fitted to the 8.2 GeV/ c K −p and 7–9 GeV/ c K +p data and is seen to describe satisfactory the d σ/d t and (d σ/d t) ϱ ij distributions. A cross-over is predicted at ‖ t′‖ = 0.18±0.03 which is consistent with experimental data. The energy dependence of the cross section predicted for 4 < P lab ⩽ 14 GeV/ c is in good agreement with experimental data K + and K 0. The model predictions concerning s- and t-channel helicity conservation are in good agreement with current experimental data while the model predicts that for beam momenta higher than 30 GeV/ c, SCHC should be apparent in all the reactions K ± → Q ±p, K 0 p → Q 0 p and K 0 p → → Q 0p .