Soft interaction model and the LHC data

TL;DR

This paper examines the limitations of existing soft interaction models in explaining LHC data, proposing a detailed analysis of model fits at different energies and highlighting the need for potential theoretical revisions.

Contribution

The study introduces a refined analysis of the GLM soft interaction model, identifying discrepancies with LHC measurements and suggesting directions for future theoretical adjustments.

Findings

Model predictions are slightly higher than previous estimates.

Total and elastic cross sections are lower than recent experimental values.

Inelastic and forward slope results align with data.

Abstract

Most models for soft interactions which were proposed prior to the measurements at the LHC, are only marginally compatible with LHC data, our GLM model has the same deficiency. In this paper we investigate possible causes of the problem, by considering separate fits to the high energy ($W > 500\, GeV$), and low energy ($W < 500\, GeV$) data. Our new results are moderately higher than our previous predictions. Our results for total and elastic cross sections are systematically lower that the recent Totem and Alice published values, while our results for the inelastic and forward slope agree with the data. If with additional experimental data, the errors are reduced, while the central cross section values remain unchanged, we will need to reconsider the physics on which our model is built.