arXiv subjects

Raúl A. Briceño

Publications and source records attributed to Raúl A. Briceño.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources

arXiv2026

Isotensor $πππ$ scattering with a $ρ$ resonant subsystem from QCD

This work presents a lattice quantum chromodynamics (QCD) determination of $πππ$ scattering amplitudes for the isospin-2 channel with angular momentum and parity $J^{P} = 1^+$. The calculation is performed using unphysically heavy light-quark masses, corresponding to a pion mass of $m_π \approx 400$~MeV, for which the $ρ$ meson manifests as a narrow resonance. The analysis employs a previously developed formalism that non-perturbatively relates the finite-volume spectra of two- and three-pion systems to their infinite-volume scattering amplitudes. We combine earlier lattice QCD results for $ππ$ systems with isospins 1 and 2 with new determinations of the isospin-2 three-pion finite-volume spectrum, obtained for three cubic, periodic lattice volumes with box lengths ranging from $\approx 4/m_π$ to $6/m_π$. These combined data constrain the low-lying partial waves of the infinite-volume three-pion K matrix, from which we solve a set of coupled integral equations to extract the corresponding scattering amplitudes.

hep-lat↗

arXiv2026

First Two-Hadron Form Factor from QCD

We present the first QCD determination of an energy-dependent form factor for a two-hadron scattering state. In particular, we calculate the QCD contribution to the forward electromagnetic $π^+π^+ + γ\toπ^+π^+$ amplitude at $m_π\approx 400$~MeV using lattice QCD. Because lattice calculations are performed in a finite Euclidean spacetime, where asymptotic scattering states are absent, this amplitude cannot be accessed directly from correlation functions. Instead, we can constrain this and related amplitudes nonperturbatively using a finite-volume formalism that requires two ingredients: the discrete finite-volume spectrum and finite-volume matrix elements of the electromagnetic current. We calculate three-point correlation functions coupling $π^+π^+$ finite-volume states and extract the corresponding electromagnetic matrix elements. Combining these results with the previously determined spectrum, we constrain the infinite-volume $π^+π^+ + γ\toπ^+π^+$ amplitude in the forward limit. Using constraints from Lorentz symmetry, unitarity, and analyticity, we describe this amplitude in terms of a single real-valued energy-dependent two-hadron form factor. The resulting amplitude and form factor agree with the Ward-Takahashi identity across all energies and moving frames considered, providing the first QCD validation of this finite-volume approach and a pathway toward first-principles studies of the electromagnetic structure and electroweak responses of resonances and multi-hadron bound states.

hep-lat↗

arXiv2026

Analytic decomposition of two-body electroweak processes with left-hand cuts

We derive an on-shell representation for electroweak $2+J\to2$ transition amplitudes involving two hadrons in both the initial and final state for systems where there are left-hand singularities generated by light-particle exchange, e.g. one-pion exchange. The derivation treats the insertion of the electroweak current perturbatively, keeping only the leading-order contribution in the external field, while the hadronic interactions are treated to all orders, including one-particle exchange effects. We find that, in such processes, the amplitude can have logarithmic singularities, as well as one-particle pole singularities, due to these exchanges. We isolate those contributions, as well as previously identified triangle singularities. The result is expressed in terms of the purely hadronic amplitude, exchange-current kernels, triangle functions, and a class of short-distance transition functions that are real and smooth below unaccounted-for thresholds. While we consider only transitions with spinless particles, this work is an important step toward constraining form factors of systems involving nucleons or vector mesons in the heavy quark sector, where the one-pion-exchange singularity is quite close to threshold.

hep-lat↗

arXiv2026

Resolving the $T_{cc}^+$ with $π$ Exchange from Lattice QCD

We revisit the lattice QCD description of the doubly charmed tetraquark $T_{cc}^+$ using a finite-volume scattering formalism that incorporates one-pion exchange nonperturbatively, thereby making the nearest left-hand cut explicit while respecting unitarity and analyticity. We simultaneously determine the $D D^\star π$ coupling and the isoscalar $DD^\star$ scattering amplitude by reanalyzing the previously computed finite-volume $DD^\star$ spectrum below the $D^\star D^\star$ threshold, on lattices with pion mass $m_π\approx391~{\rm MeV}$. We find that the inclusion of pion exchange changes the $T_{cc}^+$ from a real-valued to a complex-valued pole in the second sheet of the $J^P=1^+$, $DD^\star$ amplitude below threshold. We further predict that the $T_{cc}^+$ pole will move closer to the real-energy axis as the pion mass approaches its physical value.

hep-lat↗

arXiv2026

Two bodies left behind

We consider scenarios in which a shallow bound state undergoes breakup by a probe whose energy is high compared to the binding energy. The first two scenarios, which serve as warm-up exercises, involve a single heavy particle bound to a light particle, analogous to a core nucleus bound to a neutron. We show that in quasi-free kinematics, the leading effect comes from the heavy particle being knocked out by the probe, with corrections suppressed by inverse powers of the probe momentum. This formally justifies extracting neutron form factors from high-energy deuteron breakup in quasi-free kinematics. In Scenario 1, the probe is a local current; in Scenario 2, it is hadron scattering. In Scenarios 3 and 4 we consider, respectively, a local current and hadron scattering, but now on a three-body bound state of a heavy particle and two light particles. Hard knockout of the heavy particle leaves two low-energy particles behind, which can interact with one another. In all four scenarios, we prove that the amplitude is dominated by the nearby on-shell pole of the heavy-particle propagator and derive a closed-form expression for this contribution. When two bodies are left behind, the leading amplitude is the product of the scattering of the two light particles, a dynamical function depending on the probe, and a real function related to the bound-state wavefunction. Thus, quasi-free removal of a core nucleus from a system with halo neutrons provides access to on-shell data on multi-neutron interactions. The resulting amplitudes are relativistic and satisfy unitarity for the remnant subsystem exactly. We also provide complementary non-relativistic derivations. While the derivations are for spinless particles, the generalization to spin is straightforward, since the results depend only on quasi-free knockout kinematics; we make no assumptions about the inter-particle dynamics.

nucl-th↗

arXiv2026

Real-time Estimators for Scattering Observables: A full account of finite volume errors for quantum simulation

The real-time correlators of quantum field theories can be directly probed through new approaches to simulation, such as quantum computing and tensor networks. This provides a new framework for computing scattering observables in lattice formulations of strongly interacting theories, such as lattice quantum chromodynamics. In this paper, we prove that the proposal of real-time estimators of scattering observables is universally applicable to all scattering observables of gapped quantum field theories. All finite-volume errors are exponentially suppressed, and the rate of this suppression is controlled by the regulator considered, namely, a displacement of the spectrum of the theory into the complex plane. A partial restoration of Lorentz symmetry by averaging over different boosts gives an additional suppression of finite volume errors. Our results also apply to the simulation of wavepacket scattering, where a similar averaging is performed to construct the wavepackets that regulate the finite volume effects. This result represents a necessary key step towards determining a broad class of scattering observables via quantum computing that are currently inaccessible via classical computing. Such observables are relevant for various applications, including hadron spectroscopy, hadron structure, and precision tests of the Standard Model. We also comment on potential applications of our results to traditional computational schemes.

hep-lat↗

arXiv2026

Resolving the structure of bound states using lattice quantum field theories

This work presents the first lattice calculation of a two-to-two particle matrix element of a local current. This exploratory calculation is performed using a leading-order pionless effective field theory of two nucleons in a finite 3D spatial volume, where the Hamiltonian can be diagonalized exactly for moderate volumes. By considering a range of couplings where the theory supports a deuteron-like bound state, we determine the finite-volume spectra and matrix elements of the conserved local vector current. Using the Lüscher formalism, we constrain the infinite-volume, purely hadronic amplitude for this theory. Using previously derived formalism, we then map the finite-volume matrix elements to scattering amplitudes describing a reaction coupling two-particle states via a current insertion, $\2+\Jc \to \2$. We then use a recently derived relation between this class of amplitudes and the bound-state elastic form factor to directly constrain the infinite-volume form factor. By varying over a range of values of the coupling of the theory, we explore the effects of this analysis for deep-bound states and shallow-bound states. We reproduce the expected result that for deep bound states, the finite-volume formalism is largely unnecessary, while for shallow bound states, it is absolutely critical to obtain a sensible result. We present a detailed outline of the analysis of this class of matrix elements, including the determination of the charge radius of the bound state. In the shallow bound state limit, we find good agreement with the prediction stemming from the anomalous threshold.

hep-lat↗

arXiv2025

Introduction to Lattice Field Theory

This chapter provides a pedagogical introduction to lattice quantum field theory, with strong emphasis on lattice quantum chromodynamics. The chapter reviews key foundational concepts of lattice quantum chromodynamics, as well as a broad summary of ongoing research in the field.

hep-lat↗

arXiv2025

Simulating lattice fermion doubling with a Floquet drive

We consider a recently discovered mathematical correspondence between the spectra of a naively discretized lattice fermion and that of a periodically driven (i.e., Floquet) quantum system and enhance it into an infrared equivalence between the two systems. The equivalence can be framed as a duality relation, allowing us to simulate a two-flavor discrete-time fermion theory on the lattice side, where the two flavors arise from time discretization, using a single-flavor fermion theory on the Floquet side. Our demonstration establishes an equivalence between (i) the fermion content, (ii) the correlation functions, and consequently (iii) observables of the two theories in the infrared, going substantially beyond the previously discovered spectral equivalence. We also show how interactions may be incorporated into this enhanced infrared equivalence.

hep-lat↗

arXiv2025

Implementing the finite-volume three-pion scattering formalism across all non-maximal isospins

We present a numerical exploration of the relativistic-field-theory (RFT) formalism for three pions with all possible values of non-maximal isospin, $I_{πππ} = 2$, $1$ and $0$. Using the generic-isospin extension of the RFT formalism and applying our open-source Python library to implement the framework, we predict a range of three-pion energies for illustrative values of the two-to-two scattering amplitudes for various finite-volume irreps also with non-zero total momentum $\boldsymbol P$ in the finite-volume frame. The results restrict attention to the case of a vanishing intrinsic three-body interaction so that the spectra can be understood as a baseline. In future lattice QCD calculations, deviations from these values will be translated into evidence for intrinsic three-body effects in the various scattering channels.

hep-lat↗

arXiv2025

Symmetrizing relativistic three-body partial wave amplitudes

S matrix principles and symmetries impose constraints on three-particle scattering amplitudes, which can be formulated as a class of integral equations for their partial wave projections. However, these amplitudes are typically expressed in an asymmetric basis, where one of the initial and final state particles is singled out, and all quantum numbers are defined relative to this spectator. In this work, we show how to construct symmetric partial wave amplitudes, which have been symmetrized over all possible spectator combinations, using their asymmetric counterparts and sets of recoupling coefficients. We derive these recoupling coefficients for arbitrary angular momentum and isospin for arbitrary systems of spinless particles with SU(2) flavor symmetry. We propose a simple intensity observable suitable for visualizing the structure of three-body dynamics in Dalitz distributions. Finally, we provide some numerical examples of Dalitz distributions relevant for future lattice QCD calculations of $3π$ systems and provide numerical evidence that the symmetrization procedure is consistent with expected symmetries of Dalitz plots.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2025

Signs of Non-Monotonic Finite-Volume Corrections to $g_A$

We study finite-volume (FV) corrections to determinations of $g_A$ via lattice quantum chromodynamics (QCD) using analytic results and numerical analysis. We observe that $SU(2)$ Heavy Baryon Chiral Perturbation Theory does not provide an unambiguous prediction for the sign of the FV correction, which is not surprising when one also considers large-$N_c$ constraints on the axial couplings. We further show that non-monotonic FV corrections are naturally allowed when one considers either including explicit $Δ$-resonance degrees of freedom or one works to higher orders in the chiral expansion. We investigate the potential impact of these FV corrections with a precision study of $g_A$ using models of FV corrections that are monotonic and non-monotonic. Using lattice QCD data that is approximately at the 1% level of precision, we do not see significant evidence of non-monotonic corrections. Looking forward to the next phase of lattice QCD calculations, we estimate that calculations that are between the 0.1%-1%-level of precision may be sensitive to these FV artifacts. Finally, we present an update of the CalLat prediction of $g_A$ in the isospin limit with sub-percent precision, $g_A^{\rm QCD} = 1.2674(96)$.

hep-lat↗

arXiv2024

Partial-wave projection of relativistic three-body amplitudes

We derive the integral equations for partial-wave projected three-body scattering amplitudes, starting from the integral equations for three-body amplitudes developed for lattice QCD analyses. The results, which hold for generic three-body systems of spinless particles, build upon the recently derived partial-wave projected one-particle exchange, a primary component of the relativistic framework proven to satisfy S matrix unitarity. We derive simplified expressions for factorizable short-distance interactions, $\mathcal{K}_{3}$, in two equivalent formalisms - one symmetric under particle interchange and one asymmetric. For the asymmetric case, we offer parameterizations useful for amplitude analysis. Finally, we examine toy models for $3π$ systems at unphysically heavy pion masses with total isospins 0,1, and 2.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2024

Inclusive reactions from finite Minkowski spacetime correlation functions

The need to determine scattering amplitudes of few-hadron systems for arbitrary kinematics expands a broad set of subfields of modern-day nuclear and hadronic physics. In this work, we expand upon previous explorations on the use of real-time methods, like quantum computing or tensor networks, to determine few-body scattering amplitudes. Such calculations must be performed in a finite Minkowski spacetime, where scattering amplitudes are not well defined. Our previous work presented a conjecture of a systematically improvable estimator for scattering amplitudes constructed from finite-volume correlation functions. Here we provide further evidence that the prescription works for larger kinematic regions than previously explored as well as a broader class of scattering amplitudes. Finally, we devise a new method for estimating the order of magnitude of the error associated with finite time separations needed for such calculations. In units of the lightest mass of the theory, we find that to constrain amplitudes using real-time methods within $\mathcal{O}(10\%)$, the spacetime volumes must satisfy $mL \sim \mathcal{O}(10-10^2)$ and $ mT\sim \mathcal{O}(10^2-10^4)$.

hep-lat↗

arXiv2023

Toward coherent quantum computation of scattering amplitudes with a measurement-based photonic quantum processor

In recent years, applications of quantum simulation have been developed to study properties of strongly interacting theories. This has been driven by two factors: on the one hand, needs from theorists to have access to physical observables that are prohibitively difficult to study using classical computing; on the other hand, quantum hardware becoming increasingly reliable and scalable to larger systems. In this work, we discuss the feasibility of using quantum optical simulation for studying scattering observables that are presently inaccessible via lattice QCD and are at the core of the experimental program at Jefferson Lab, the future Electron-Ion Collider, and other accelerator facilities. We show that recent progress in measurement-based photonic quantum computing can be leveraged to provide deterministic generation of required exotic gates and implementation in a single photonic quantum processor.

quant-ph↗

arXiv2023

Partial-wave projection of the one-particle exchange in three-body scattering amplitudes

As the study of three-hadron physics from lattice QCD matures, it is necessary to develop proper analysis tools in order to reliably study a variety of phenomena, including resonance spectroscopy and nuclear structure. Reconstructing the three-particle scattering amplitude requires solving integral equations, which can be written in terms of data-constrained dynamical functions and physical on-shell quantities. The driving term in these equations is the so-called one-particle exchange, which leads to a kinematic divergence for particles on-mass-shell. A vital component in defining three-particle amplitudes with definite parity and total angular momentum, which are used in spectroscopic studies, is to project the one-particle exchange into definite partial waves. We present a general procedure to construct exact analytic partial wave projections of the one-particle exchange contribution for any system composed of three spinless hadrons. Our result allows one full control over the analytic structure of the projection, which we explore for some low-lying partial waves with applications to three pions.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2023

Evolution of Efimov States

The Efimov phenomenon manifests itself as an emergent discrete scaling symmetry in the quantum three-body problem. In the unitarity limit, it leads to an infinite tower of three-body bound states with energies forming a geometric sequence. In this work, we study the evolution of these so-called Efimov states using relativistic scattering theory. We identify them as poles of the three-particle $S$ matrix and trace their trajectories in the complex energy plane as they evolve from virtual states through bound states to resonances. We dial the scattering parameters toward the unitarity limit and observe the emergence of the universal scaling of energies and couplings -- a behavior known from the non-relativistic case. Interestingly, we find that Efimov resonances follow unusual, cyclic trajectories accumulating at the three-body threshold and then disappear at some values of the two-body scattering length. We propose a partial resolution to this "missing states" problem.

nucl-th↗

arXiv2023

Analytic continuation of the relativistic three-particle scattering amplitudes

We investigate the relativistic scattering of three identical scalar bosons interacting via pair-wise interactions. Extending techniques from the non-relativistic three-body scattering theory, we provide a detailed and general prescription for solving and analytically continuing integral equations describing the three-body reactions. We use these techniques to study a system with zero angular momenta described by a single scattering length leading to a bound state in a two-body sub-channel. We obtain bound-state--particle and three-particle amplitudes in the previously unexplored kinematical regime; in particular, for real energies below elastic thresholds and complex energies in the physical and unphysical Riemann sheets. We extract positions of three-particle bound-states that agree with previous finite-volume studies, providing further evidence for the consistency of the relativistic finite-volume three-body quantization conditions. We also determine previously unobserved virtual bound states in this theory. Finally, we find numerical evidence of the breakdown of the two-body finite-volume formalism in the vicinity of the left-hand cuts and argue for the generalization of the existing formalism.

nucl-th↗