Accessing Generalized Transversity Distributions with Exclusive $\pi^o$ Electroproduction

Abstract

Exclusive $\pi^0$ electroproduction from nucleons at large $Q^2$ can be described by Generalized Parton Distributions (GPDs), particularly the chiral odd subset related to transversity. These GPDs can be accessed experimentally from various cross sections and asymmetries. We calculate these GPDs in a spectator model, constrained by boundary functions. Alternatively, in a hadronic picture the meson production amplitudes correspond to C-odd Regge exchanges with final state interactions. The helicity structure provides relations between the partonic and the hadronic, Regge description of C-odd, chiral-odd processes. Calculations show how the tensor charge and other transversity parameters can be