An amplitude analysis of the $\overline{N}N \to \pi^- \pi^+$ reaction

Abstract

A simple partial wave amplitude analysis of $\overline{p}p \rightarrow \pi^- \pi^+$ has been performed for data in the range p$_{\sl lab}$ = 360 -- 1000 MeV/c. Remarkably few partial waves are required to fit the data, while the number of required $J$ values barely changes over this energy range. However, the resulting set of partial wave amplitudes is not unique. We discuss possible measurements with polarized beam and target which will severely restrict and help resolve the present analysis ambiguities. New data from the reaction $\overline{p}p \rightarrow \pi^0 \pi^0$ alone, are insufficient for that purpose.