Production of high-spin $\omega_J/\rho_J$ ($J=2,3,4,5$) mesons in $\pi^{-}p$ reactions

Abstract

In this work, we perform a comprehensive investigation of the production of high-spin $\omega_J$ and $\rho_J$ mesons ($J=2,3,4,5$) in $\pi^- p$ reactions using an effective Lagrangian approach. By constructing the relevant $t$-channel processes and calibrating the model with a single adjustable parameter fitted to existing data, we successfully reproduce the measured total and differential cross sections for the $J=3$ states $\omega_3(1670)$ and $\rho_3(1690)$. Within the same framework, we predict the production cross sections for their lower- and higher-spin partners: $\omega_2(1975)$, $\rho_2(1940)$, $\omega_4(2250)$, $\rho_4(2230)$, $\omega_5(2350)$, and $\rho_5(2350)$. Our results show that these states exhibit measurable cross sections with characteristically forward-peaked angular distributions, underscoring their strong potential for observation in future $\pi p$ meson-beam experiments.