Abstract
Exclusive photoproduction cross sections have been measured for the process $\gamma p \rightarrow p\pi^0(e^+e^-(\gamma))$ with the Dalitz decay final state using tagged photon energies in the range of $E_{\gamma} = 1.275-5.425$ GeV. The complete angular distribution of the final state $\pi^0$, for the entire photon energy range up to large values of $t$ and $u$, has been measured for the first time. The data obtained show that the cross section $d\sigma/dt$, at mid to large angles, decreases with energy as $s^{-6.89\pm 0.26} $. This is in agreement with the perturbative QCD quark counting rule prediction of $s^{-7} $. Paradoxically, the size of angular distribution of measured cross sections is greatly underestimated by the QCD based Generalized Parton Distribution mechanism at highest available invariant energy $s=11$ GeV$^2$. At the same time, the Regge exchange based models for $\pi^0$ photoproduction are more consistent with experimental data.
Highlights
There are properties of π 0 that make this particle very special for our understanding of quantum chromodynamics (QCD)
Exclusive photoproduction cross sections have been measured for the process
This is in agreement with the perturbative QCD quark counting rule prediction
Summary
There are properties of π 0 that make this particle very special for our understanding of quantum chromodynamics (QCD). Π 0 → γ γ , with a branching ratio ≈ 99%, played a crucial role in confirming the number of colors in QCD and in establishing the chiral anomaly in gauge theories. With all this being said, the structure and properties of π 0 are not completely understood.
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