Exploring kaon induced reactions for unraveling the nature of the scalar meson $a_0 (1817)$

TL;DR

This paper uses an effective Lagrangian and Regge model to analyze kaon-induced reactions, predicting optimal energy ranges and cross sections for detecting the scalar meson $a_0(1817)$, aiding future experimental searches.

Contribution

It introduces a comprehensive theoretical analysis of $a_0(1817)$ production via kaon-induced reactions using Reggeized t-channel calculations, providing predictions for experimental detection.

Findings

Optimal energy range for detection: 3.4-3.6 GeV.

Predicted minimum total cross section: 112 nb.

Enhanced differential cross sections at forward angles.

Abstract

In this study, we comprehensively investigate the production of isovector scalar meson $a_{0}(1817)$ using the effective Lagrangian approach. Specifically, we employ the Reggeized $t$ channel Born term to calculate the total and differential cross sections for the reaction $K^{-}p \rightarrow a_{0}(1817)\Lambda$. Our analysis reveals that the optimal energy range for detecting the $a_{0}(1817)$ meson lies between $W=3.4$ GeV and $W=3.6$ GeV, where the predicted total cross section reaches a minimum value of 112 nb. Notably, the $t$ channel, as predicted by the Regge model, significantly enhances the differential cross sections, particularly at extreme forward angles. Furthermore, we investigate the Dalitz processes of $2\rightarrow 3$ and discuss the feasibility of detecting the $a_{0}(1817)$ meson in experiments such as J-PARC.