Target Normal Single-Spin Asymmetry in Inclusive DIS

ORAL

Abstract

An experiment (E07--013) to measure the target normal single spin asymmetry $A^n_N$ in inclusive deep-inelastic $n^{\uparrow}(e,e')$ reaction with a vertically polarized $^3$He target has completed data collection during Jefferson Lab's Hall A neutron transversity experiment (E06--010) in Fall of 2008. The expected accuracy of this measurement is $\delta A^n_N = 3 \times 10^{-3}$. The target normal spin asymmetry in DIS probes helicity--flip amplitudes at the quark level that are related to effects beyond the leading-twist picture of DIS. In view of the predicted rapid variation of the asymmetry between $10^{-2}$ (exclusive) and $10^{-4}$ (DIS-inclusive), a non-zero measurement would be sensitive to the transition from hadronic to partonic degrees of freedom. The status and perspectives of the data analysis will be discussed.

Authors

  • Timothy Holmstrom

    Longwood University