Double-Regge Exchange Limit for the $\gamma p\rightarrow K^+K^-p$ Reaction

TL;DR

This paper models the double-Regge exchange limit in the gamma-proton to K+K-p reaction using the generalized Veneziano model, predicting its contribution as a background in searches for exotic states, and employs Monte Carlo simulations and Van Hove plots for analysis.

Contribution

It applies the $B_5$ model to simulate double-Regge exchange in this reaction and introduces Van Hove plots as an effective method for event selection in this context.

Findings

Predicted double-Regge contributions to the Dalitz plot.

Identified Van Hove plots as superior to kinematic cuts.

Provided a framework for future experimental verification.

Abstract

We apply the generalized Veneziano model ($B_5$ model) in the double-Regge exchange limit to the $\gamma p \to K^+ K^- p$ reaction. Four different cases defined by the possible combinations of the signature factors of leading Regge exchanges (($K^*,a_2/f_2$), ($K^*,\rho/\omega$), ($K_2^*,a_2/f_2$), and ($K_2^*,\rho/\omega$)) have been simulated through the Monte Carlo method. Suitable event candidates for the double-Regge exchange high-energy limit were selected employing \textit{Van Hove} plots as a better alternative to kinematical cuts in the $K^+ K^- p$ Dalitz plot. In this way we predict and analyze the double-Regge contribution to the $K^+ K^- p$ Dalitz plot, which constitutes one of the major backgrounds in the search for strangeonia, hybrids and exotics using $\gamma p\rightarrow K^+K^-p$ reaction. We expect that data currently under analysis, and that to come in the future, will allow verification of the double-Regge behavior and a better assessment of this component of the amplitude.