Analysis of Data on Polarized Lepton-Nucleon Scattering

Abstract

We re-analyze data on deep inelastic polarized lepton-nucleon scattering, with particular attention to testing the Bjorken sum rule and estimating the quark contributions to the nucleon spin. Since only structure function data at fixed $Q^2$ can be used to test sum rules, we use E142 asymmetry measurements and unpolarized structure function data to extract $g_1^n$ at fixed $Q^2$ = 2 GeV$^2$. When higher-twist effects, which are important at low $Q^2$, are included, both the E142 and SMC data are compatible with the Bjorken sum rule within one standard deviation. Assuming validity of the Bjorken sum rule, we estimate the quark contributions to the nucleon spin, finding that their total net contribution is small, with the strange quark contribution non-zero and negative. The quark spin content of the nucleon spin is in agreement with Skyrme model.