Exclusive $\pi^0$ production at EIC of China within handbag approach

Abstract

The exclusive $\pi^0$ electroproduction is analyzed within the handbag approach based on Generalized Parton Distributions (GPDs) factorization. We consider the leading-twist contribution together with the transversity effects. It is shown that the transversity, $H_T$ and $\bar E_T$ GPDs are essential in the description of $\pi^0$ cross section. Predictions for future Electron-Ion Collider of China (EicC) energy range are done. It is found that transversity dominance $\sigma_T\gg\sigma_L$, observed at low energies is valid up to EicC energy range.