Constraining quark angular momentum through semi-inclusive measurements

Abstract

The determination of quark angular momentum requires the knowledge of the generalized parton distribution E in the forward limit. We assume a connection between this function and the Sivers transverse-momentum distribution, based on model calculations and theoretical considerations. Using this assumption, we show that it is possible to fit at the same time nucleon magnetic moments and semi-inclusive single-spin asymmetries. This imposes additional constraints on the Sivers function and opens a plausible way to quantifying quark angular momentum.