Inclusive Λ production in proton-proton collisions at 3.5 GeV

Abstract

The inclusive production of Λ hyperons in proton-proton collisions at $\sqrt{s}$ = 3.18 GeV was measured with HADES at the GSI Helmholtzzentrum für Schwerionenforschung in Darmstadt. The experimental data are compared to a data-based model for individual exclusive Λ production channels in the same reaction. The contributions of intermediate resonances such as Σ(1385), Δ++ or N* are considered in detail. In particular, the result of a partial wave analysis is accounted for the abundant pK$^+$Λ final state. Model and data show a reasonable agreement at mid rapidities, while a difference is found for larger rapidities. A total Λ production cross section in p+p collisions at $\sqrt{s}$ = 3.18 GeV of σ(pp $\to$ Λ + X) = 207.3 $\pm$ 1.3 +6.0 -7.3 (stat.) $\pm$ 8.4 (syst.) +0.4 -0.5 (model) μb is found.

12 pages, 6 figures