The dynamic hadronization of charm quarks in heavy-ion collisions

TL;DR

This paper introduces an updated model for heavy ion collisions that incorporates a mechanism for heavy quark fragmentation via junction formation, validated through proton and proton-lead collision results.

Contribution

It presents new updates to the junction formation and string fragmentation mechanisms specifically for heavy quark fragmentation in heavy ion collision simulations.

Findings

Validated framework for proton collisions

Simulated charm baryon production in proton-lead collisions

Enhanced baryon production through junction mechanisms

Abstract

The PYTHIA8/ANGANTYR model for heavy ion collisions was recently updated with a mechanism for \textit{global colour reconnection}. The colour reconnection model used is QCD colour algebra inspired and enhances baryon production due to the formation of string junctions. In this paper, we present updates to the junction formation and string fragmentation mechanisms, connected to heavy quark fragmentation. This allows for the simulation of heavy quark fragmentation, using junction formation, in heavy ion collisions. The framework is validated for proton collisions, and we show results for charm baryon production in proton-lead collisions.