Multiplicity behavior ofπ−p→pX: A multiperipheral-model description

Abstract

For the inclusive reaction ${\pi }^{-}p\to \mathrm{pX}$, the average charged multiplicity $〈n〉$ of the system $X$ as a function of missing mass $M^2$ and momentum transfer $t$ is studied in terms of a multiperipheral model. For $M^2\gtrsim 20$ Ge${\mathrm{V}}^2$ (above the low-mass pion diffraction region) and for $\mathrm{}\left|t\right|\mathrm{}\lesssim 1$ Ge${\mathrm{V}}^2$, the model is found to be in good agreement with data at 205 GeV/c, which show $〈n(M^2, t)〉\sim \ln M^2$ for fixed $t$, and $〈n(M^2, t)〉$ only weakly dependent on $t$ for fixed $M^2$. Further experimental and theoretical investigation is suggested.