The pp→K+ Σ +n cross-section from missing-mass spectra

Abstract

We utilize existing inclusive data on K+-meson momentum spectra of the reaction pp→K + X at T p = 2.3-2.85GeV to deduce total cross-sections for pp→K + Σ + n. The method used to extract those cross-sections is explained and discussed in detail. Our result for T p = 2.85GeV is consistent with the data point from a direct measurement at the same beam energy. The cross-section obtained for T p = 2.3GeV is with 13.7±2.3μb considerably smaller than the value found in a recent experiment by the COSY-11 Collaboration at a somewhat lower beam energy, indicating that the pp→K + Σ + n reaction cross-section could exhibit a rather unusual energy dependence.