Review of Scalar Mesons

Abstract

The formulae needed to parametrise sigma, kappa, a0(980) and f0(980) are reviewed. For sigma and kappa, the Adler zero due to Chiral Symmetry Breaking plays a crucial role. The f0(980) and a0(980) are locked to the KK threshold by a cusp mechanism which leads to a sharp peak in attraction at the threshold. This mechanism may play a wider role. A novel suggestion is that the confinement potential involves a cooperative effect between QCD effects (coloured quarks and gluons) and conventional meson exchanges.