Possible Test of the GUT Relation between $M_1$ and $M_2$ in Electron-Photon Scattering

Abstract

We investigate associated production of selectrons and the lightest neutralino (LSP) in the process e^- + gamma --> neutralino_1 + selectron_{L/R} with the selectron subsequently decaying into an electron and the LSP. Total cross sections and various polarization asymmetries are calculated for photons produced by Compton backscattering of a polarized laser beam at an $e^+e^-$ linear collider with CMS energy $\sqrt{s_{ee}}=500$ GeV and with polarized beams. The total cross section and in particular the polarization asymmetries show a characteristic dependence on the gaugino mass parameter $M_1$. Therefore this process is suitable for testing the GUT relation $M_1=M_2\cdot{5/3}\tan^2\theta_W $.