The reaction $pd\to(pp)n$ at high momentum transfer and short-range NN properties

Abstract

A recent cross section measurement of the deuteron breakup reaction $pd\to (pp)(0^\circ)+n(180^\circ)$, in the GeV region in a kinematics similar to backward $pd$ elastic scattering, strongly contradicts predictions of a $pd \to dp$ model based on the one-nucleon exchange, single pN scattering and $\Delta$ excitation mechanisms, and on the wave functions of the Reid soft core and Paris $NN$ potentials. We show within the same model that for the CD Bonn $NN$ potential there is qualitative agreement with the data. It is attributed to a reduction of the one-nucleon exchange at energies above 1 GeV and an increase of the $\Delta(1232)$-isobar contribution, both related to the short-range properties of the wave functions generated by this potential.