ManeParse: a Mathematica reader for Parton Distribution Functions

TL;DR

ManeParse is a self-contained Mathematica package that enables easy access, interpolation, and plotting of Parton Distribution Functions (PDFs) directly within Mathematica, simplifying calculations involving hadronic initial states.

Contribution

It introduces a new Mathematica package that provides seamless access and flexible interpolation of PDFs without external dependencies, enhancing computational efficiency.

Findings

Fast and efficient PDF calculations within Mathematica

Flexible interpolation options for small-x extrapolation

Simplifies calculations involving hadronic processes

Abstract

Parton Distribution Functions (PDFs) are essential non-perturbative inputs for calculation of any observable with hadronic initial states. These PDFs are released by individual groups as discrete grids as a function of the Bjorken-x and energy scale Q. The LHAPDF project at HepForge maintains a repository of PDFs from various groups in a new standardized LHAPDF6 format, as well as older formats such as the CTEQ PDS grid format. ManeParse is a package that provides PDFs within the Mathematica framework to facilitate calculating and plotting. The program is self-contained so there are no external links to any Fortran, C or C++ programs. The package includes the option to use the built-in Mathematica interpolation or a custom cubic Lagrange interpolation routine which allows for flexibility in the extrapolation (particularly at small x values). ManeParse is fast enough to enable simple calculations (involving even one or two integrations) to be easily computed in the Mathematica framework.