Differential cross sections for Λ(1520) using photoproduction at CLAS

Abstract

The reaction $γp \rightarrow K^{+} Λ(1520)$ using photoproduction data from the CLAS $g12$ experiment at Jefferson Lab is studied. The decay of $Λ(1520)$ into two exclusive channels, $Σ^{+}π^{-}$ and $Σ^{-}π^{+}$, is studied from the detected $K^{+}$, $π^{+}$, and $π^{-}$ particles. A good agreement is established for the $Λ(1520)$ differential cross sections with the previous CLAS measurements. The differential cross sections as a function of CM angle are extended to higher photon energies. Newly added are the differential cross sections as a function of invariant 4-momentum transfer $t$, which is the natural variable to use for a theoretical model based on a Regge-exchange reaction mechanism. No new $N^*$ resonances decaying into the $K^+Λ(1520)$ final state are found.

16 pages, 12 figures, 2 tables