arXiv subjects

Lei Chang

Publications and source records attributed to Lei Chang.

At least 37 records · Page 2Linked to original sources

arXiv2025

Spatial and temporal evolutions of blue-core helicon discharge driven by planar antenna with concentric rings

The spatial and temporal evolutions of blue-core helicon discharge driven by a planar antenna with four concentric rings are explored on the Linear Experimental Advanced Device (LEAD). The discharge experiences distinct density jumps from E mode to H mode, W mode, and blue-core mode, when RF input power increases. This is similar to previous observations using other typical helicon antennas; however, this special antenna could drive modes of even higher levels for which the blue-core plasma column is actually hollow in radius, i.e. peaking off-axis, which was not presented before. The column shows counterclockwise rotation for blue-core mode and clockwise rotation for non-blue-core mode. The reason could be attributed to the radial electric field differenceses for both modes which reverses the rotation direction via ExB drive. Moreover, the centrifugal instability of blue-core helicon plasma is computed using a two-fluid flowing plasma model. It shows that the instability is strong for small axial wave number but becomes weak for large axial wave number. Perturbed density peaks at radius of 0.045 m, while the equilibrium density gradient peaks at radius of 0.055 m. The coincidence of their radial locations suggests that it is a resistive drift mode driven by density gradient. The blue-core mode weakens once the magnetic field or flow rate exceeds the threshold value. Increasing power further leads to a smoother plasma density gradient. The electron temperature profiles decrease with increased power, and the radial gradient of the electron temperature inside the core is smaller as the magnetic field changes. To our best knowledge, it is the first detailed characterization of blue-core helicon plasma driven by planar antenna, especially in terms of azimuthal rotation and centrifugal instability.

physics.plasm-ph↗

arXiv2025

Empirical Determination of the Kaon Distribution Amplitude

We propose a data-driven approach to extract the Kaon leading-twist distribution amplitude (DA) from empirical information on the ratio of the neutral-to-charged kaon electromagnetic form factors, $\mathcal{R}_K$. Our study employs a two-parameter representation of the DA at $ζ=2$ GeV, designed to capture the expected broadening and asymmetry of the distribution, as well as the soft endpoint behavior predicted by quantum chromodynamics (QCD). Our leading-order analysis of the latest experimental measurements of $\mathcal{R}_K$ reveals that the extracted DA exhibits a somewhat significant skewness, with the first symmetric moment approximately $\langle 1-2x \rangle_K= 0.082(7)$. On the other hand, the brodaness and general shape of the produced distributions show a reasonable consistency with contemporaty lattice and continuum QCD analyses. These findings highlight the importance of accurately determining the profile of the DA, especially the skewness and its relation to $SU_F(3)$ flavor symmetry breaking, as well as the inclusion of higher-order effects in the hard-scattering kernels for analyzing data at experimentally accessible scales.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2025

Illustrating the liquid gas transition of nuclear matter in QCD

We demonstrate that the liquid-gas transition of nuclear matter can be rigorously described with the quantum chromodynamics by combining the quark gap equation and the Faddeev equation of nucleon. Our investigation focuses on this transition at zero temperature and finite chemical potential, revealing a finite difference between the gas and liquid solution of the quark propagator. This difference emerges from the shift of the nucleon pole mass in medium, which is generated in the nucleon channel of the quark gap equation. We prove that such a difference is precisely the contour contribution from the shift of the nucleon pole. The resulting discontinuity manifests as a first-order phase transition and fundamentally determines both the nuclear binding energy and the saturation density. We then derive an analytical relation between the binding energy and the sigma term of the nucleon, yielding a binding energy of $E/A=15.9\,\textrm{MeV}$. Furthermore, by establishing the relation between the nuclear saturation density and the vector charge of nucleon in association with the binding energy, we determine the saturation density to be $n_{\textrm{B}}^{0}=0.15\,\textrm{fm}^{-3}$.

nucl-th↗

arXiv2025

Bottomonium meson spectrum with quenched and unquenched quark models

An open question in hadronic phenomenology concerns the ``unquenching" effects of higher Fock space components on the leading Fock space description of hadrons. We address this by making a comparison of the bottomonium spectrum as computed with the relativized Godfrey-Isgur quark model and an unquenched coupled channel model driven by the ``$^3P_0$" mechanism of hadronic decay. Our results show that both models can describe the spectrum well, indicating that the influence of coupled channel effects can be largely absorbed into the parameters of the quenched quark model. This conclusion is reinforced by a perturbative calculation that shows that the spin-dependence of mass splittings due to mixing with the continuum recapitulates quenched quark model spin-dependent interactions. We also show that softening of the quark-antiquark wavefunction due to continuum mixing improves the description of vector bottomonium decay constants. Together, these results illustrate and substantiate the surprising robustness of simple constituent quark model descriptions of hadrons.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2025

Unveiling the inner structure of the pion first excited state

By capturing the characteristics of the Bethe-Salpeter amplitude for the pion excitation state, we construct an algebraic model to provide the overall features of the pion first excitation state parton distribution amplitude and distribution function. We find that, at the hadronic scale, the distribution amplitude of the excited state exhibits nodes, while the distribution function is unimodal, with a peak at $x=1/2$ and distinct concave and convex fluctuations in the valence region. These findings provide new insights into the partonic structure of excited mesons and contribute significantly to our understanding of hadronic excitations.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2024

Sketching pion and proton mass distributions

A light-front holographic model is used to illustrate an algebraic scheme for constructing a representation of a hadron's zero-skewness generalised parton distribution (GPD) from its valence-quark distribution function (DF) and electromagnetic form factor, $F_H$, without reference to deeply virtual Compton scattering data. The hadron's mass distribution gravitational form factor, $A_H$, calculated from this GPD is harder than $F_H$; and, for each hadron, the associated mass-density profile is more compact than the analogous charge profile, with each pion near-core density being larger than that of its proton partner. These features are independent of the scheme employed.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2024

Neutral pion to two-photons transition form factor revisited

Based upon a combined formalism of Schwinger-Dyson and Bethe-Salpeter equations in quantum chromodynamics (QCD), we propose a QCD kindred algebraic model for the dressed quark propagator, for the Bethe-Salpeter amplitude of the pion and the electromagnetic quark-photon interaction vertex. We then compute the $γ^{*}π^0γ$ transition form factor $G^{γ^{*}π^0γ}(Q^2)$ for a wide range of photon momentum transfer squared $Q^2$. The quark propagator is expanded out in its perturbative functional form but with dynamically generated dressed quark mass. It has complex conjugate pole singularities in the complex-momentum plane which is motivated by the solution of the quark gap equation with rainbow-ladder truncation of the infinite set of Schwinger-Dyson equations. This complex pole singularity structure of the quark propagator can be associated with a signal of confinement which prevents quarks to become stable asymptotic states. The Bethe-Salpeter amplitude is expressed without a spectral density function, which encapsulate its low and large momentum behaviour. The QCD evolution of the distribution amplitude is also incorporated into our model through the direct implementation of Efremov-Radyushkin-Brodsky-Lepage evolution equations. We include the effects of the quark anomalous magnetic moment in the description of the quark-photon vertex whose infrared enhancement is known to dictate hadronic properties. Once the QCD kindred model is constructed, we calculate the form factor $G^{γ^{*}π^0γ}(Q^2)$ and find it consistent with direct QCD-based studies as well as most available experimental data. It slightly exceeds the conformal limit for large $Q^2$ which might be attributed to the scaling violations in QCD. The associated interaction radius and neutral pion decay width turn out to be compatible with experimental data.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2024

Contact interaction treatment of $\mathcal{V}\to\mathcal{P}γ$ for light-quark mesons

The $\mathcal{V}\to\mathcal{P}γ$ and $η(η^\prime) \to γγ$ decays are evaluated within a Dyson-Schwinger and Bethe-Salpeter equations framework (here $\mathcal{V}=\{ρ^{\pm},K^{\star\pm},ϕ\}$ and $\mathcal{P}=\{π^{\pm},K^{\pm},η,η^{\prime}\}$). The so-called impulse approximation (IA) is employed in the computation of the decay constants involved and decay widths, and so in the estimation of the associated charge and interaction radii. For their part, the required propagators and vertices stem from a contact interaction model, embedded within a beyond rainbow-ladder (RL) truncation that accounts for the typical ladder exchanges, quark anomalous magnetic moment, as well as the non-Abelian anomaly. While the examined transitions produce decay widths plainly compatible with the available experimental data, those processes involving the $η-η'$ mesons highlight the incompleteness of the IA when considering beyond RL effects in the interaction kernels.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2024

Gravitational form factors of pseudoscalar mesons in a contact interaction

Given the unique role played by the gravitational form factors (GFFs) in unraveling the internal mechanics of hadrons, we examine the GFFs of ground state pseudoscalar mesons $π$, $η_c$, $η_b$ and the hypothetical {\em strangeonium} $η_s(s\bar{s})$. We adopt the coupled framework of Dyson-Schwinger and Bethe-Salpeter equations within a contact interaction, and employ a novel approach to the dressed amputated meson-meson scattering amplitude which makes connection with the energy-momentum tensor and with the GFFs. The resulting GFFs fulfill the anticipated symmetry constraints. The corresponding charge and mass radii and the $D-$term are also computed. We show that the $D-$term for the pseudoscalar mesons is bounded within the $(-1, -1/3)$ range; these bounds correspond to the massless (chiral limit) and infinitely massive cases, respectively. Considering the current interest in the GFFs, understanding the \textit{D}-term of pseudoscalar mesons and their GFFs can provide an important first step for future endeavors in the field.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2024

Examining the critical phenomenon of pion parton distribution: Insights from the Moment Problem

A recent study by Wang {\it et al.}(arXiv:2309.01417) proposed a novel connection between the nature of the parton distribution function (PDF) and the characteristics of its moments. In this study, we apply these findings to analyze the evolution of the pion valence quark PDF, garnering valuable qualitative insights. Firstly, we validate the non-negativity and continuity of the PDF across a wide range of scales, indicating the logical consistency of our chosen evolution scheme. Subsequently, we examine the unimodality of both the PDF and its transformed counterpart, the xPDF, i.e., the parton distribution function multiplied by the momentum fraction. We observe a smooth evolution of the peak position of the xPDF towards the small-$x$ region with increasing scale, while intriguingly, the PDF undergoes a phase of bimodal competition as the energy scale evolves.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2024

Bridging Electromagnetic and Gravitational Form Factors: Insights from LFHQCD

We propose an efficacious approach to derive the generalized parton distributions for the pion and proton, based upon prior knowledge of their respective parton distribution functions (PDFs). Our method leverages on integral representations of the electromagnetic form factors derived from the light-front holographic QCD (LFHQCD) formalism, coupled with PDFs computed from continuum Schwinger functional methods at the hadronic scale. Using these techniques, we calculate gravitational form factors and associated mass distributions for each hadron. Remarkably, our calculations yield results that closely match recent lattice QCD simulations conducted near the physical pion mass. This work not only deepens our understanding of hadronic structure but also highlights the efficacy of the LFHQCD approach in modeling fundamental properties of hadrons.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2024

Reconstructing parton distribution function based on maximum entropy method

A new method based on the maximum entropy principle for reconstructing the parton distribution function (PDF) from moments is proposed. Unlike traditional methods, the new method no longer needs to introduce any artificial assumptions. For the case of moments with errors, we introduce Gaussian functions to soften the constraints of moments. Through a series of tests, the effectiveness and reconstruction efficiency of this new method are evaluated comprehensively. And these tests indicate that this method is reasonable and can achieve high-quality reconstruction with at least the first six moments as input. Finally, we select a set of lattice QCD results regarding moments as input and provide reasonable reconstruction results for the pion.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2024

QCD anomalies in electromagnetic processes: A solution to the $γ\to3π$ puzzle

In this work, the $γ\to3π$ form factor is calculated within the Dyson-Schwinger equations framework using a contact interaction model within the so-called modified rainbow ladder truncation. The present calculation takes into account the pseudovector component in the pion Bethe-Salpeter amplitude (BSA) and $π-π$ scattering effects, producing a $γ\to3π$ anomaly which is $1+6\mathcal{R}_π^2$ larger than the low energy prediction. Here $\mathcal{R_π}$ is the relative ratio of the pseudovector and pseudoscalar components in the pion BSA; with our parameters input, this correction raises the $γ\to3π$ anomaly by around $10\%$. The main outcome of this work is the unveiling of the origin of such correction, which could be a possible explanation of the discrepancy between the existing experimental data and the low energy prediction. Moreover, it is highlighted how the magnitude of the anomaly is affected in effective theories that require an irremovable ultraviolet cutoff. We find that for both the anomalous processes $π\to2γ$ and $γ\to 3π$, the missing contribution to the anomaly can be compensated by the additional structures related with the quark anomalous magnetic moment.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2023

Sieving parton distribution function moments via the moment problem

We apply a classical mathematical problem, the moment problem, with its related mathematical achievements, to the study of the parton distribution function (PDF) in hadron physics, and propose a strategy to sieve the moments of the PDF by exploiting its properties such as continuity, unimodality, and symmetry. Through an error-inclusive sifting process, we refine three sets of PDF moments from Lattice QCD. This refinement significantly reduces the errors, particularly for higher order moments, and locates the peak of PDF simultaneously. As our strategy is universally applicable to PDF moments from any method, we strongly advocate its integration into all PDF moment calculations.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2023

Strong Interaction Physics at the Luminosity Frontier with 22 GeV Electrons at Jefferson Lab

This document presents the initial scientific case for upgrading the Continuous Electron Beam Accelerator Facility (CEBAF) at Jefferson Lab (JLab) to 22 GeV. It is the result of a community effort, incorporating insights from a series of workshops conducted between March 2022 and April 2023. With a track record of over 25 years in delivering the world's most intense and precise multi-GeV electron beams, CEBAF's potential for a higher energy upgrade presents a unique opportunity for an innovative nuclear physics program, which seamlessly integrates a rich historical background with a promising future. The proposed physics program encompass a diverse range of investigations centered around the nonperturbative dynamics inherent in hadron structure and the exploration of strongly interacting systems. It builds upon the exceptional capabilities of CEBAF in high-luminosity operations, the availability of existing or planned Hall equipment, and recent advancements in accelerator technology. The proposed program cover various scientific topics, including Hadron Spectroscopy, Partonic Structure and Spin, Hadronization and Transverse Momentum, Spatial Structure, Mechanical Properties, Form Factors and Emergent Hadron Mass, Hadron-Quark Transition, and Nuclear Dynamics at Extreme Conditions, as well as QCD Confinement and Fundamental Symmetries. Each topic highlights the key measurements achievable at a 22 GeV CEBAF accelerator. Furthermore, this document outlines the significant physics outcomes and unique aspects of these programs that distinguish them from other existing or planned facilities. In summary, this document provides an exciting rationale for the energy upgrade of CEBAF to 22 GeV, outlining the transformative scientific potential that lies within reach, and the remarkable opportunities it offers for advancing our understanding of hadron physics and related fundamental phenomena.

nucl-ex↗

arXiv2023

The chiral anomaly and the pion transition form factor: beyond the cutoff

In the presence of a momentum cutoff, effective theories seem unable to faithfully reproduce the so called chiral anomaly in the Standard Model. A novel prospect to overcome this related issue is discussed herein via the calculation of the $γ^{*}π^0γ$ transition form factor, $G^{γ^* π^0 γ}(Q^2)$, whose normalization is intimately connected with the chiral anomaly and dynamical chiral symmetry breaking (DCSB). To compute such transition, we employ contact interaction model of Quantum Chromodynamics (QCD) under a modified rainbow ladder truncation, which automatically generates a quark anomalous magnetic moment term, weighted by a strenght parameter $ξ$. This term, whose origin is also connected with DCSB, is interpreted as an additional interaction that mimics the complex dynamics beyond the cutoff. By fixing $ξ$ to produce the value of $G^{γ^* π^0 γ}(0)$ dictated by the chiral anomaly, the computed transition form factor, as well as the interaction radius and neutral pion decay width, turn out to be comparable with QCD-based studies and experimental data.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2023

A fresh look at the generalized parton distributions of light pseudoscalar mesons

We present a symmetry-preserving scheme to derive the pion and kaon generalized parton distributions (GPDs) in Euclidean space. The key to maintaining crucial symmetries under this approach is the treatment of the scattering amplitude, such that it contains both the traditional leading-order contributions and the scalar/vector pole contribution automatically, the latter being necessary to ensure the soft-pion theorem. The GPD is extracted analytically via the uniqueness and definition of the Mellin moments and we find that it naturally matches the double distribution; consequently, the polynomiality condition and sum rules are satisfied. The present scheme thus paves the way for the extraction of the GPD in Euclidean space using the Dyson-Schwinger equation framework or similar continuum approaches.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2022

A glimpse into pion gravitational form factor

We provide a novel approach to calculate the gravitational form factor of pion under the ladder approximation of the Bethe-Salpeter equation, with contact interactions. Central to this approach is a symmetry-preserving treatment of the dressed $ππ$ amplitude, which shows explicitly the contributions from intrinsic quarks and bound states, the latter being necessary to produce the $D$-term of pion in the soft-pion limit. The approach we provide in this work can be applied to many processes of physical significance.

hep-ph↗