Measurement of Spin Density Matrix Elements in $\Lambda(1520)$ Photoproduction at 8.2-8.8 GeV

TL;DR

This paper presents the first measurement of spin density matrix elements of the $ ext{Lambda}(1520)$ in photoproduction at 8.2-8.8 GeV, revealing dominant natural exchange amplitudes and providing new insights into the reaction mechanism.

Contribution

First measurement of spin density matrix elements of $ ext{Lambda}(1520)$ in this energy range, using linearly polarized photons at Jefferson Lab.

Findings

Natural exchange amplitudes are dominant in $ ext{Lambda}(1520)$ photoproduction.

Results are consistent with Reggeon exchange model predictions.

First such measurements in the 8.2-8.8 GeV photon energy range.

Abstract

We report on the measurement of spin density matrix elements of the $\Lambda(1520)$ in the photoproduction reaction $\gamma p\rightarrow \Lambda(1520)K^+$, via its subsequent decay to $K^{-}p$. The measurement was performed as part of the GlueX experimental program in Hall D at Jefferson Lab using a linearly polarized photon beam with $E_\gamma =$ 8.2-8.8 GeV. These are the first such measurements in this photon energy range. Results are presented in bins of momentum transfer squared, $-(t-t_\text{0})$. We compare the results with a Reggeon exchange model and determine that natural exchange amplitudes are dominant in $\Lambda(1520)$ photoproduction.