Some Problems in High-Energy Particle Detection and Analysis

Abstract

1. The kinematic analysis of high-energy events requires, in general, particle momentum measurements with an absolute error of ±50-100 MeV/c, independent of momentum. Corresponding errors are 0.05% at 100 GeV/c, less at higher momenta. To minimize the cost of magnetic deflection of high-energy particles, improvements in angular precision, hence, in particle location accuracy, are desirable. The present analysis indicates that improving location accuracy from ±1/3 mm to ±0.1 mm is both desirable and feasible. The usefulness of still higher precision must await data on detailed systems performance. 2. For complex events, it appears likely that vidicon digitization can compete favorably in cost, convenience, and flexibility with large wire-array systems. 3. Neutral particle detectors that furnish accurate data on the location and direction of neutral particles (gamma rays, neutral hadrons) are likely to be important.