Jet modification in the next decade: a pedestrian outlook

TL;DR

This review discusses the current understanding and future prospects of jet modification in dense matter, highlighting traditional and modern observables, theoretical developments, and the potential for precise medium property measurements.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive overview of jet modification theory, including traditional and modern observables, and outlines future directions for quantitative medium property determination.

Findings

Traditional observables justify jet modification models

Modern full jet reconstruction faces challenges

Upcoming theoretical and experimental developments will enhance medium property measurements

Abstract

In this review, intended for non-specialists and beginners, we recount the current status of the theory of jet modification in dense matter. We commence with an outline of the "traditional" observables which may be calculated without recourse to event generators. These include single and double hadron suppression, nuclear modification factor versus reaction plane etc. All of these measurements are used to justify both the required underlying physical picture of jet modification as well as the final obtained values of jet transport coefficients. This is followed by a review of the more modern observables which have arisen with the ability to reconstruct full jets, and the challenges faced therein. This is followed by a preview of upcoming theoretical developments in the field and an outlook on how the interface between these developments, phenomenological improvements, and upcoming data will allow us to quantitatively determine properties of the medium which effect the modification of hard jets.