Q^2 dependence of azimuthal asymmetries in semi-inclusive deep inelastic scattering and in Drell-Yan

Abstract

We study several azimuthal asymmetries in semi-inclusive deep inelastic scattering and in Drell-Yan, interpreting them in the framework of the formalism of the quark correlator, with a particular reference to T-odd functions. The correlator contains an undetermined energy scale, which we fix on the basis of a simple and rather general argument. We find a different value than the one assumed in previous treatments of T-odd functions. This implies different predictions on the Q^2 dependence of the above mentioned asymmetries. Our result about the azimuthal asymmetry of unpolarized Drell-Yan agrees with presently available data, contrary to the alternative assumption on the scale. Predictions on other azimuthal asymmetries could be tested against data of planned experiments on Drell-Yan and semi-inclusive deep inelastic scattering.