Extracting alpha_s from Electron-Positron Annihilation around 10 GeV

Abstract

The total cross section for electron-positron annihilation into hadrons is calculated in the region just below the B meson threshold. QCD corrections up to third order, quark mass effects, initial state radiation, the running of alpha_QED and the tails of the Upsilon resonances are included in the prediction. For given alpha_s the prediction is accurate to 0.5 percent. An experimental measurement with the corresponding precision would allow to determine alpha_s with high accuracy at intermediate energies.

13 pages, LaTeX, 4 figures. Discussion of uncertainties slightly modified. Version to appear in Physical Review D. The complete paper, including figures, is also available via anonymous ftp at ftp://ttpux2.physik.uni-karlsruhe.de/ , or via www at http://www-ttp.physik.uni-karlsruhe.de/cgi-bin/preprints/