Production rates for π+ K −, pK −, and pπ− atoms in inclusive processes

Abstract

The yields of π+K−, pK−, and pπ− atoms in the reaction p + Al → atom + X at energies of 24, 70, 450 GeV and emission angles of θlab=1°–6° are calculated from inclusive-production cross sections for p, π+, π−, and K−. Estimates of these hadronic-atom yields for a Ta target are also given. The inclusive-production cross sections for p, π+, π−, and K− are obtained within the Lund model of string fragmentation. The accuracy of the calculations is estimated by comparing single particle yields calculated by the Lund model and experimental yields of particles in proton-nucleus interactions.