Theoretical study of the $Ξα$ correlation function

Abstract

We study $Ξ$-$^4{\mathrm{He}}$ ($α$) momentum correlation functions in the high-energy nuclear collisions to investigate the nature of the $ΞN$ interactions. We employ the folding $Ξα$ potential based on the lattice QCD $ΞN$ interactions to compute the correlation function. The $Ξα$ potential supports a Coulomb-assisted bound state ${}^5_Ξ\mathrm{H}$ in the $Ξ^-α$ channel, while the $Ξ^0α$ channel is unbound. To examine the sensitivity of the correlation function to the nature of the $Ξα$ interaction, we vary the potential strength simulating stronger and weaker interactions. The result of the correlation function is sensitive to the existence of the bound state in the $Ξ^0 α$ channel, and the characteristic behavior of the bound state remains also in the $Ξ^-α$ correlation with the Coulomb interaction. The effect of the repulsive core of the $Ξα$ potential can be found in the correlation from the small source as the distinctive dip in the intermediate momentum region.