Possible Effect ofK¯−NReactions onK−NScattering

Abstract

Approximate $P$-wave dispersion relations for $K-N$ scattering are considered, under the assumption that the $K\Lambda N$ and $K\Sigma N$ interactions are of the odd intrinsic-parity, Yukawa type. If the crossing terms (which involve the $P$-wave $\overline{K}-N$ amplitudes) are neglected, the predictions of the equations are contradicted by the experimental evidence. However, the presence of virtual pion-hyperon states may enhance the $\overline{K}-N$ amplitudes sufficiently that they play an important role in the equations. It is shown that if the isotopic spin 1, $P_{\frac{3}{2}}$ $\overline{K}-N$ absorptive amplitude is particularly strong, the contradiction with experiment may be removed. The possibility of even-parity $K$-baryon reactions is discussed briefly.