The final state K − pn has been analyzed in a K − deuterium bubble chamber experiment at K − momenta between 680 and 840 MeV/ c . Differential cross sections for elastic K − p and K − n scattering in the c.m. energy range of 1.60–1.74 GeV are presented. The results for K − p→K − p agree well with existing data obtained with hydrogen targets. The results for K − n→K − n are lower but still compatible with recent measurements from a counter experiment.
PLAB IS THE EFFECTIVE KAON LAB MOMENTA CORRESPONDING TO THE GIVEN CM ENERGY ASSUMING AN ON-SHELL TARGET NUCLEON AT REST.
We have measured the cross section at 180° for K + p and K + n elastic scattering in the momentum range 1.0 to 1.5 GeV/ c . The K + n cross section was measured on deuterium and the K + p on hydrogen and deuterium. We were thus able to measure directly the difference between free nucleon (proton) scattering and bound nucleon (proton) scattering at large angles. This difference was found to be small and within our experimental accuracy the K + p(n) cross section should be equal to the K + p (free) cross section at 180°. We found no evidence for an s -channel resonance Z ∗ in either the K + p or K + n system. A comparison of our data and those of other groups with theoretical predictions is given.
HYDROGEN AND DEUTERIUM TARGET DATA ARE IN GOOD AGREEMENT. THESE CROSS SECTIONS ARE A WEIGHTED AVERAGE.