QCD hard scattering results from PHENIX at RHIC

TL;DR

This paper reviews high transverse momentum hadron production data from the PHENIX experiment at RHIC across different collision systems, revealing significant medium effects in central Au+Au collisions that inform on QCD matter properties.

Contribution

It provides the first comprehensive comparison of high-$p_T$ hadron spectra in p+p, d+Au, and Au+Au collisions at RHIC energies, highlighting medium modifications in heavy-ion collisions.

Findings

Significant suppression of high-$p_T$ hadrons in central Au+Au collisions.

Differences in hadron spectra between p+p, d+Au, and Au+Au collisions.

Insights into the properties of the QCD medium created in heavy-ion collisions.

Abstract

Data on hadron production at high transverse momentum ($p_T>$ 2 GeV/$c$) in p+p, d+Au, and Au+Au collisions at $\sqrt{s_{NN}$ = 200 GeV from the PHENIX experiment at RHIC are reviewed. The single inclusive spectrum of light hadrons produced in central Au+Au reactions shows significant differences compared to p+p and d+Au collisions, and provides interesting information on the properties of the underlying QCD medium present in heavy-ion reactions at collider energies.