Exploring Nucleon Structure through Sub- and Near-threshold $\phi$-Meson Photoproduction

TL;DR

This paper explores the potential of using sub- and near-threshold $phi$-meson photoproduction in electron-positron colliders to investigate short-range correlations in nuclei, highlighting the feasibility at future facilities like STCF.

Contribution

It assesses the feasibility of studying nuclear short-range correlations via $phi$-meson photoproduction at electron-positron colliders, proposing a novel approach in nuclear physics research.

Findings

BESIII is inadequate for the measurement due to limited events.

Future STCF offers higher probability of successful measurement.

Electron-positron colliders can elucidate nuclear modification of parton distribution functions.

Abstract

We propose to investigate short-range correlations (SRCs) in nuclei by studying sub and near-threshold photoproduction of $\phi$-meson. The feasibility of exploring this nuclear structure in electron-positron collision experiments such as Beijing Spectrometer III (BESIII) and Super $\tau$-Charm Facility (STCF) was investigated by utilizing their beryllium-based ($^{9}$Be) beam pipe. The cross sections for these processes as well as the likelihood of detection by BESIII and STCF are calculated. Due to the limited number of events, BESIII is inadequate for the proposed measurement, while the future STCF provides a higher probability of successfully measuring this process. These findings suggest that electron-positron collider could play a valuable role in elucidating the fundamental physics behind the nuclear modification of parton distribution functions. This proposed analysis of photon-nucleon interactions represents uncharted territory, promising fresh prospects for applications in both particle and nuclear physics.