A study of Lambda-nucleon scattering using the CLAS detector

Previous data for the elastic scattering of Lambda hyperons from the nucleon dates back to the bubble chamber era of the 1970s. Data for $\Lambda N$ scattering is very limited in comparison with other elastic scattering processes, such as NN or $\pi N$. Using the high luminosity photon beam incident on a long (40 cm) liquid hydrogen target at Hall B of Jefferson Lab, the CLAS detector was used to identify a final state with a proton in coincidence with a scattered Lambda baryon. The $\Lambda$, before elastic scattering, was produced via the $\gamma p \to K^+ \Lambda$ reaction, for which the cross section is well known. This allows us to determine the flux of $\Lambda$ particles, with which we can then measure the $\Lambda p$ elastic scattering cross section in the momentum range between 0.5 and 1.0 GeV/c. Preliminary results from the analysis of this reaction will be presented. Future directions of related possibilities for measuring hyperon-nucleon scattering at CLAS will be discussed.