Investigation of the baryon time-like electromagnetic form factors in the electron-positron annihilation reactions

Abstract

Based on the experimental measurements of the electron-positron annihilation reactions into a baryon ($B$) and anti-baryon ($\bar{B}$) pair, the electromagnetic form factors of hyperons in the time-like region can be investigated within the vector meson dominance model. The theoretical model parameters are determined by fitting them to the total cross sections of the process $e^+e^-\to B \bar{B}$, and it is found that the current experimental data on the baryon electromagnetic form factors in the time-like region can be well reproduced. In addition to the total cross sections, the electromagnetic form factors $G_E$ and $G_M$, and the charge radii of those baryons are also estimated, which are in agreement with the experimental data. On the other hand, we have also investigated the nonmonotonic behavior of the time-like baryon electromagnetic form factors, and it is found that the previously proposed periodic behaviour of the nucleon time-like electromagnetic form factor is not confirmed. However, we do observe the nonmonotonic structures in the line shape of the baryon effective form factors or the ratio $|G_E/G_M|$ for the charmed baryon $\Lambda^+_c$. These features can be naturally explained by incorporating contributions from excited vector states. More precise measurements of the $e^+e^-\to B \bar{B}$ reaction offer a valuable opportunity to probe the properties of excited vector states, which are at present poorly known. Additionally, comprehensive theoretical and experimental studies of baryon timelike electromagnetic form factors can provide critical insights into the underlying mechanisms of electron-positron annihilation processes.