Definition and Evolution of Transverse Momentum Distributions

Abstract

We consider the definition of unpolarized transverse-momentum-dependent parton distribution functions while staying on-the-light-cone. By imposing a requirement of identical treatment of two collinear sectors, our approach, compatible with a generic factorization theorem with the soft function included, is valid for all non-ultra-violet regulators (as it should), an issue which causes much confusion in the whole field. We explain how large logarithms can be resummed in a way which can be considered as an alternative to the use of Collins-Soper evolution equation. The evolution properties are also discussed and the gauge-invariance, in both classes of gauges, regular and singular, is emphasized.