Final state interactions in semi-inclusive neutrino-nucleus scattering: Application to T2K and MINER$\nu$A experiments

TL;DR

This paper compares neutrino-nucleus scattering data from T2K and MINER$ u$A with two theoretical models, showing that the RDWIA approach with final-state interactions better matches the experimental results at forward angles.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive comparison of experimental data with two different theoretical models, highlighting the importance of final-state interactions in neutrino scattering.

Findings

RDWIA approach matches or improves data agreement at forward angles.

Final-state interactions are crucial for accurate modeling.

GENIE-SuSAv2 predictions are less accurate at very forward angles.

Abstract

We present a complete comparison of semi-inclusive $\nu_\mu$-$^{12}$C cross-section measurements by T2K and MINER$\nu$A collaborations with the predictions from the SuSAv2-MEC model implemented in the neutrino-nucleus event generator GENIE and an unfactorized approach based on the relativistic distorted wave impulse approximation (RDWIA). Results, that include cross sections as function of the final muon and proton kinematics and correlations between both, show that the agreement with data obtained by the RDWIA approach, that accounts for final-state interactions, matches or improves GENIE-SuSAv2 predictions for very forward angles where scaling violations are relevant.