Towards the Theory of Diffractive DIS

TL;DR

This paper reviews the current theoretical understanding of diffractive deep inelastic scattering (DIS), highlighting its relation to inclusive DIS, the limitations of existing models, and open questions in the field.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive overview of the theoretical frameworks for diffractive DIS, emphasizing the semiclassical approach and the connection to inclusive DIS, while discussing successes and limitations.

Findings

Success of leading twist description in some regimes

Limitations of current models in explaining all data

Identification of open questions for future research

Abstract

The large rapidity gap events, observed at HERA, have changed considerably our physical picture of deep inelastic scattering during the past years. We review the present theoretical understanding of diffractive DIS with emphasis on the close relation to inclusive DIS. This includes success and limitations of the leading twist description, the connection between diffractive and inclusive parton distributions in the semiclassical approach, the colour structure of the proton and comparison with data. The progress report concludes with a list of open questions.