Theoretical prediction of cosmic rays models for strange particles production at RHIC energy

Abstract

This study conducts a comprehensive assessment of Monte Carlo models, including Sibyll, EPOS-LHC, and EPOS4, in the context of simulating strange and multi-strange hadron production within high-multiplicity proton–proton collisions at 200 GeV. The analysis reveals common trends across various particle types: models tend to overestimate low transverse momentum (pT) distributions and approach experimental data as pT increases. EPOS-LHC produce better predictions in the intermediate pT range. However, none of the models adequately reproduce pT distributions for Λ and Λ̄ particles, typically underpredicting the data. EPOS4_Hydro performs relatively better due to its ability to account for reduced particle multiplicity at high pT and energy redirection into flow. For Ξ and Ξ̄ particles, models underpredict distributions at high pT, except for EPOS4_Hydro, which consistently overpredicts. Additionally, the study delves into particle ratios, such as Λ̄/Λ and Ξ+/Ξ−, highlighting varying model performance. The mean transverse momentum increases with particle mass, and specific models demonstrate good fits for certain mass ranges. EPOS-LHC and EPOS4 with hydrodynamics were notably accurate for particles below 0.6 GeV. Within the mass range of 0.6 to 1.4 GeV, EPOS-LHC displayed the closest fit. However, particles surpassing 1.2 GeV showed higher accuracy with EPOS4 without hydrodynamics. These insights underscore the significance of selecting appropriate Monte Carlo models based on specific research requirements in high-energy physics.