Renormalization Scheme Consistent Structure Functions, Including Leading ln (1/x) Terms

Abstract

We present calculations of structure functions using a renormalization scheme consistent expansion which is leading order in both ln(1/x) and α_s(Q^2). There is no factorization scheme dependence, and the ``physical anomalous dimensions'' of Catani naturally appear. A relationship between the small x forms of the inputs F_2(x,Q_0^2) and F_L(x,Q_0^2) is predicted. Analysis of a very wide range of data for F_2(x,Q^2) is performed, and a very good global fit obtained. The prediction for F_L(x,Q^2) produced using this method is smaller than the usual NLO in α_s(Q^2) predictions for F_L(x,Q^2), and different in shape.