Transverse single spin asymmetries in Drell-Yan processes
Abstract
Recently, it has been shown, contrary to previous beliefs, that the kT distribution of quarks in a transversely polarized proton can be asymmetric. This ``Sivers effect'' had already been used to explain transverse single spin asymmetries (SSA) observed in inclusive pion production, p(transv. polarized) p --> pion + X and p-bar(transv. polarized) p --> pion + X. In such channels, however, other mechanisms, like the ``Collins effect'' (a kT asymmetric fragmentation of a transversely polarized quark into pions), may generate SSA. The Sivers asymmetry is used here to compute SSA in Drell-Yan processes; in this case, by considering the differential cross-section in the lepton-pair invariant mass, rapidity and transverse momentum, other mechanisms which may originate SSA cannot contribute. Estimates for RHIC experiments are given.
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