Measurements of the np total cross section difference $\Delta \sigma_L$ at 1.59, 1.79 and 2.20 GeV

Abstract.

New results of the neutron-proton spin-dependent total cross section difference $\Delta\sigma_L(np)$ at the neutron beam kinetic energies 1.59, 1.79 and 2.20 GeV are presented. Measurements were performed at the Synchrophasotron of the Laboratory of High Energies of the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research in Dubna. A quasi-monochromatic neutron beam was produced by break-up of extracted polarized deuterons. Neutrons were transmitted through a large polarized proton target. Measurements were performed either with a parallel or an antiparallel beam and target polarizations, both oriented along the beam momentum. The results at the two higher energies were measured with two opposite beam and target polarization directions. Only one target polarization direction was available at 1.59 GeV. The present measurements agree well with existing data. A fast decrease of the $-\Delta\sigma_L(np)$ values with increasing energy above 1.1 GeV was confirmed. The new results are also compared with model predictions and with phase shift analysis fits. The $\Delta\sigma_L$ quantities for isosinglet state I=0, deduced from the measured $\Delta\sigma_L(np)$ values and known $\Delta\sigma_L(pp)$ data, are given.