The measurement of the pp->K+ n Sigma+ reaction near threshold

TL;DR

This paper examines the measurement of the pp->K+ n Sigma+ reaction near threshold, highlighting discrepancies with existing data and providing an interpretation that aligns with lower cross section values in the literature.

Contribution

It identifies conflicts between inclusive and exclusive reaction data and offers an interpretation that constrains the reaction's cross section near threshold.

Findings

Discrepancy between inclusive and exclusive reaction data

Upper bound consistent with lower literature values

Highlights need for further experimental clarification

Abstract

It is shown that a recent extraction of the total cross section for pp->K+ n Sigma+ from inclusive K+ production data is in conflict with experimental data on the exclusive pp->K+ p Lambda reaction. The result may be interpreted as an upper bound which is not inconsistent with the much lower values that already exist in the literature.