Constraints on spin-dependent parton distributions at large x from global QCD analysis

We investigate the behavior of spin-dependent parton distribution functions (PDFs) at large parton momentum fractions x in the context of global QCD analysis. We explore the constraints from existing deep-inelastic scattering data, and from theoretical expectations for the leading x -> 1 behavior based on hard gluon exchange in perturbative QCD. Systematic uncertainties from the dependence of the PDFs on the choice of parametrization are studied by considering functional forms motivated by orbital angular momentum arguments. Finally, we quantify the reduction in the PDF uncertainties that may be expected from future high-x data from Jefferson Lab at 12 GeV.Comment: 14 pages, 3 figures, 1 tabl

New results on SIDIS SSA from Jefferson Lab

We present studies of single-spin and double-spin asymmetries in semi-inclusive electroproduction of pions using the CEBAF 6 GeV polarized electron beam. Kinematic dependences of single and double spin asymmetries have been measured in a wide kinematic range at CLAS with a polarized NH$_3$ target. Significant target-spin $\sin2\phi$ and $\sin\phi$ asymmetries have been observed. The hypothesis of factorization has been tested with $z$-dependence of the double spin asymmetry.Comment: 4 pages, 6 figure

Quark orbital angular momentum: can we learn about it from GPDs and TMDs?

It is known how to access information on quark orbital angular momentum from generalized parton distribution functions, in a certain specified framework. It is intuitively expected, that such information can be accessed also through transverse momentum dependent distribution functions, but not known how. Now quark models provide promising hints. Recent results are reviewed.Comment: proceeding of the "4th Workshop on Exclusive Reactions at High Momentum Transfer," 18-21 May 2010, Jefferson La

Predictions for double spin asymmetry A_{LT} in Semi Inclusive DIS

In the leading order of QCD parton model of Semi Inclusive Deep Inelastic Scattering (SIDIS) the double spin asymmetry $A_{LT}$ arises due to the longitudinal polarization of quarks in the transversely polarized nucleon. The corresponding $k_T^2$ weighted distribution function $g^{(1)}_{1T}$ can be related to ordinary helicity distribution $g_1(x)$ measured in DIS. Using recent parameterizations for (un)polarized distribution and fragmentation functions we calculated $A_{LT}$ asymmetry on transversely polarized proton and deuteron targets for different types hadron production. The predictions are given for COMPASS, HERMES and JLab energies. The role of Lorentz invariance relations and positivity constraints are discussed.Comment: The new conventional definition of asymmetry is adopted -- the factor two is added. The figures are rescaled by factor tw

Measurement of Single- and Double-Spin Asymmetries in Deep Inelastic Pion Electroproduction with a Longitudinally Polarized Target

We report the first measurement of the transverse momentum dependence of double-spin asymmetries in semi-inclusive production of pions in deep-inelastic scattering off the longitudinally polarized proton. Data have been obtained using a polarized electron beam of 5.7 GeV with the CLAS detector at the Jefferson Lab (JLab). Modulations of single spin asymmetries over the azimuthal angle between lepton scattering and hadron production planes φ have been measured over a wide kinematic range in Bjorken x and virtual photon squared four-momentum Q2. A significant nonzero sin2φ single spin asymmetry was observed for the first time indicating strong spin-orbit correlations for transversely polarized quarks in the longitudinally polarized proton

Studies of Transverse Momentum Dependent Parton Distributions and Bessel Weighting

In this paper we present a new technique for analysis of transverse momentum dependent parton distribution functions, based on the Bessel weighting formalism. The procedure is applied to studies of the double longitudinal spin asymmetry in semi-inclusive deep inelastic scattering using a new dedicated Monte Carlo generator which includes quark intrinsic transverse momentum within the generalized parton model. Using a fully differential cross section for the process, the effect of four momentum conservation is analyzed using various input models for transverse momentum distributions and fragmentation functions. We observe a few percent systematic offset of the Bessel-weighted asymmetry obtained from Monte Carlo extraction compared to input model calculations, which is due to the limitations imposed by the energy and momentum conservation at the given energy/Q2. We find that the Bessel weighting technique provides a powerful and reliable tool to study the Fourier transform of TMDs with controlled systematics due to experimental acceptances and resolutions with different TMD model inputs.Comment: 30 pages, 8 figures, enhanced discussion and interpretation of results, new section on errors with an appendix, added references. Accepted for publication in JHE

Beam Single-Spin Asymmetry in Semi-Inclusive Deep Inelastic Scattering

We calculate, in a model, the beam spin asymmetry in semi-inclusive jet production in deep inelastic scattering. This twist-3, $T$-odd observable is non-zero due to final state strong interactions. With reasonable choices for the parameters, one finds an asymmetry of several percent, about the size seen experimentally. We present the result both as an explicit asymmetry calculation and as a model calculation of the new transverse-momentum dependent distribution function $g^\perp$.Comment: 10 pages, 6 figures; minor changes made in the discussion; version accepted for publicatio