Quantum Chromodynamics and Multiplicity Distributions

Abstract

Quantum chromodymamics (QCD) approach to the problem of multiplicity distributions in high energy particle collisions is described. The solutions of QCD equations for generating functions of the multiplicity distributions in gluon and quark jets are presented for both fixed and running coupling constants. The newly found characteristics very sensitive to distribution shapes is discussed. The predictions are confronted to experimental data. Evolution of the multiplicity distributions with decreasing phase space windows is considered and discussed in connection to the notions of intermittency and fractality. Some other QCD effects are briefly described.