Polarization options in inclusive DIS off tensor polarized deuteron

TL;DR

This paper analyzes systematic errors in extracting the tensor polarized structure function b_1 from inclusive deep inelastic scattering on the deuteron, considering different polarization choices and higher twist effects.

Contribution

It provides a quantitative assessment of systematic errors in measuring tensor polarized structure functions using a deuteron convolution model.

Findings

Systematic errors are comparable for different polarization choices at 12 GeV.

Higher Q^2 favors the momentum transfer polarization direction.

Contamination from higher twist functions affects the extraction of b_1.

Abstract

In the near future, the Jefferson Lab $b_1$ experiment will provide the second measurement of tensor polarized asymmetries in inclusive DIS on the deuteron. In this asymmetry, 4 independent tensor polarized structure functions contribute. This necessitates systematic approximations in the extraction of the leading twist structure function $b_1$ from a single tensor asymmetry measurement. Contamination from higher twist structure functions and kinematic effects is discussed here. Using a deuteron convolution model, we quantify the systematic errors from these approximations for two different choices for the target polarization direction (momentum transfer, electron beam direction). For Jefferson Lab 12 GeV kinematics, the systematic error turns out to be comparable between the two polarization options, while at higher $Q^2$ values the momentum transfer direction is preferred.