We review the current status of the phenomenon of Color Transparency (CT), a fundamental consequence of the description of hadrons from Quantum Chromo Dynamics. CT refers to the vanishing of final (and/or initial) state interactions with the nuclear medium for exclusive process at sufficiently high enough momentum transfers. We discuss the current experimental observations relating to CT and their theoretical implications for other high energy processes. Future CT experiments and facilities are also described.

Short range correlated (SRC) N N pairs are pairs of nucleons with high relative momentum (prel > kF where kF 250 MeV/c is the Fermi momentum in medium to heavy nuclei) and lower center of mass momentum. The motivation for studying SRC pairs ranges from a desire to achieve a more comprehensive understanding of the many-body nuclear wave-function at high-resolution to searching for explicit QCD-dynamics effects within the nuclear medium, not to mention connections to many other open problems in nuclear physics. Exploring short-range correlations was one of the physics motivations for building CEBAF (now Jefferson Lab). Scientists used the high luminosity and high energy of this cutting-edge machine to find kinematics that cleanly showed the signals of short-range correlations. This paved the way in the last two decades for tremendous progress understanding these correlations. This paper reviews recent progress and highlights outstanding questions and areas that need further study.

We propose to measure the ϕ-nucleon cross section σ_ϕN to solve the longstanding puzzle of whether σ_ϕN≃ 10 mb, as extracted from photoproduction, or ∼30 mb, as obtained from nuclear rescattering. CLAS data demonstrated that even precision data for unpolarized ϕ photoproduction are insufficient to unambiguously extract σ_ϕN, allowing the possibilities of both σ_ϕN values. However, as it often happens, the additional spin degrees of freedom afforded by a polarized target sufficiently constrains the theory to unambiguously provide σ_ϕN. This will be accomplished with a measurement of the tensor asymmetry A_zz in coherent ϕ photoproduction from the deuteron, γ+ d → ϕ+ d. The same measurement in coherent ρ photoproduction will allow us to understand the kinematic dependence of the photon longitudinal interaction length for this process, which is necessary to identify unambiguous signal for color transparency. This will be the first study of observables in photoproduction from tensor polarized deuterons. We will use the standard GlueX spectrometer, the Hall D Dynamic Nuclear Polarization (DNP) polarized target, and both a circularly and linearly polarized tagged photon beam. The ability to operate the target in a frozen spin mode and produce negative tensor-polarization will decrease the time needed to make the measurements by a factor of more than 2.5. We request 65 days of beam time which includes commissioning the tensor polarized target.

We calculate the valence parton distribution function (PDF) of pion, within the theoretical approach based on spectral function representation of valence quarks in the pion. In this approach we assume that the soft partonic structure of pion is defined by the valence qq̅ cluster, consisting of current quarks, embedded in the residual field of the pion. The valence PDF is calculated using phenomenological Light-Front wave functions for the qq̅ cluster and the residual field. Our result indicates that the peak position of the x weighted valence PDF (xPDF) depends on parameters characterizing the virtuality of the cluster and the mass of the residual system. Magnitudes of these parameters are obtained by fitting to the height and the peak position of empirical pion xPDF evaluated at starting Q_0. They indicate that unlike the nucleon case, very little residual mass is needed to describe existing pion PDFs at intermediate x. They also indicate that the qq̅-cluster is highly virtual and on average the interacting quark carries almost all of the momentum of the qq̅ cluster. This picture is consistent with the dominance of the Feynman mechanism leaving little room for the hard component in the PDF, and practically describing ∼ (1-x) behavior observed recently at x→ 1 limit. Our non-trivial observation is that the height and the peak position of xPDF define the analytic behavior of valence PDF at x→ 1 limit.

We report the observation of the existence of a possible universal limit for valence parton distributions that should exist once partonic degrees of freedom are relevant for high energy scattering from strongly interacting bound systems like a nucleon, meson or a few nucleon system at very short distances. Our observation is based on the notion that the Bjorken x weighted valence parton distribution function has a peak, $x_p$, that characterizes the average momentum fraction carried out by the valence quarks in the system. Within the residual mean-field model of the valence quark distribution we found that $x_p$ has an upper limit: $x_p \leq {1\over 2(n_V-1)}$, where $n_V$ is the number of valence quarks which can be considered in the cluster embedded in the strongly interacting environment of the bound system. The existence of such a limit imposes a new constraint on choosing the starting resolution scale $Q_0$ for PDFs. Our prediction for the nucleon is that $x_p\mid_{Q\to Q_0}\le{1\over 4}$, which is in agreement with all the available valence PDFs that employ the standard approach for selecting starting $Q_0$. We also demonstrate how the existence of this limit can be used to check the onset of quark-clusters in short range nucleon correlations in nuclei.

This White Paper presents an overview of the current status and future perspective of QCD research, based on the community inputs and scientific conclusions from the 2022 Hot and Cold QCD Town Meeting. We present the progress made in the last decade toward a deep understanding of both the fundamental structure of the sub-atomic matter of nucleon and nucleus in cold QCD, and the hot QCD matter in heavy ion collisions. We identify key questions of QCD research and plausible paths to obtaining answers to those questions in the near future, hence defining priorities of our research over the coming decades.

This document presents the initial scientific case for upgrading the Continuous Electron Beam Accelerator Facility (CEBAF) at Jefferson Lab (JLab) to 22 GeV. It is the result of a community effort, incorporating insights from a series of workshops conducted between March 2022 and April 2023. With a track record of over 25 years in delivering the world's most intense and precise multi-GeV electron beams, CEBAF's potential for a higher energy upgrade presents a unique opportunity for an innovative nuclear physics program, which seamlessly integrates a rich historical background with a promising future. The proposed physics program encompass a diverse range of investigations centered around the nonperturbative dynamics inherent in hadron structure and the exploration of strongly interacting systems. It builds upon the exceptional capabilities of CEBAF in high-luminosity operations, the availability of existing or planned Hall equipment, and recent advancements in accelerator technology. The proposed program cover various scientific topics, including Hadron Spectroscopy, Partonic Structure and Spin, Hadronization and Transverse Momentum, Spatial Structure, Mechanical Properties, Form Factors and Emergent Hadron Mass, Hadron-Quark Transition, and Nuclear Dynamics at Extreme Conditions, as well as QCD Confinement and Fundamental Symmetries. Each topic highlights the key measurements achievable at a 22 GeV CEBAF accelerator. Furthermore, this document outlines the significant physics outcomes and unique aspects of these programs that distinguish them from other existing or planned facilities. In summary, this document provides an exciting rationale for the energy upgrade of CEBAF to 22 GeV, outlining the transformative scientific potential that lies within reach, and the remarkable opportunities it offers for advancing our understanding of hadron physics and related fundamental phenomena.

We demonstrate that at sufficiently high energies when the eikonal regime is established for hadronic interactions, the double scattering subprocess can be clearly identified and isolated in quasi-elastic deuteron electro-disintegration processes. Comparing theoretical calculations with the recent high precision experimental data we present a “proof of principle” that these processes can be used to study advanced issues related to hadron formation in QCD. In this case, the double scattering represents as a fermi-scale “detector” which probes products of high Q2 scattering from the bound nucleon through their rescattering from the spectator nucleon in the deuteron.

Electro-disintegration of the deuteron at large $Q^2$ currently represents on of the most promising reactions which allows to probe the bound nuclear state at internal momenta comparable to the rest mass of the nucleon. Large internal momentum in this case makes non-nuncleonic states energetically more feasible and the question that we address is what are the signatures that will indicate the existence of such states in the ground state of the nuclear wave function. To probe such states we developed a light-front formalism for relativistic description of a composite pseudo-vector system in which emerging proton and neutron are observed in electro-disintegration reaction. In leading high energy approximation our calculations show the possibility of the existence of a new ``incomplete" P-state-like structure in the deuteron at extremely large internal momenta. The incompleteness of the observed P-state violates the angular condition for the momentum distribution, which can happen only if the deuteron contains non-nucleonic structures, such as $\Delta\Delta$, $N^*N$ or hidden color components. Because such states have distinctive angular momentum ($l=1$) they significantly modify the polarization properties of the deuteron wave function. As a result in addition to angular anisotropy of the LF momentum distribution of the nucleon in the deuteron one predicts strong modification of the tensor polarization asymmetry of the deuteron beyond the S- and D- wave predictions at large internal momenta in the deuteron.

We introduce a new observable, $A_{node}$, that allows to isolate the node in the S-partial wave distribution of the deuteron in high $Q^2$ electro-disintegration processes with tensor polarized target. The node is a signature of nuclear repulsive core and represents a crucial test of its strength, size as well as the role of the relativistic and non-nucleonic effects in a deeply bound state. Within plane wave impulse approximation the node immitates a ``hole" through which incoming probe passes through without interaction. It is demonstrated that high $Q^2$ electro-disintegration processes due to their strong anisotropy of final state interaction effects, allow to gain an unprecedented access to the node, opening up a new venue in probing elusive dynamics of the nuclear repulsive core.

We discuss the kinematical and dynamical conditions necessary for probing highly elusive three-nucleon short range correlations~(3N-SRCs) in nuclei through inclusive electron scattering. The kinematic requirements that should be satisfied in order to isolate 3N-SRCs in inclusive processes are derived. We demonstrate that the sequence of two short-range NN interactions represents the main mechanism. Within this mechanism we predict a quadratic dependence of the inclusive cross section ratios of nuclei to $^3$He in the 3N-SRC region to the same ratio measured in 2N-SRC domain. The first analysis of the available data satisfying the necessary 3N-SRC kinematical conditions is presented. This analysis provides tantalizing signatures of scaling associated with the onset of 3N-SRCs. The same data are also consistent with the prediction of the quadratic relation between the ratios measured in the 3N and 2N-SRC regions for nuclei ranging $4 \le A \le 197$. This agreement made it possible to extract $a_3(A)$, the probability of 3N-SRCs relative to the $^3$He nucleus. For $a_3(A)$ we obtain noticeably larger magnitudes than for the analogous parameter, $a_2(A)$ for 2N-SRCs.

We outline the physics opportunities provided by the Electron Ion Collider (EIC). These include the study of the parton structure of the nucleon and nuclei, the onset of gluon saturation, the production of jets and heavy flavor, hadron spectroscopy and tests of fundamental symmetries. We review the present status and future challenges in EIC theory that have to be addressed in order to realize this ambitious and impactful physics program, including how to engage a diverse and inclusive workforce. In order to address these many-fold challenges, we propose a coordinated effort involving theory groups with differing expertise is needed. We discuss the scientific goals and scope of such an EIC Theory Alliance.

method. We then apply the method to determine the 87Y(n, γ ) cross section, which has not been measured directly. The work was carried out in the context of an LLNL L2 Milestone. This report addresses the theory aspects of the milestone. A complementary document summarizes the experimental efforts [1].

and GRETINA a 1{pi} detector is under construction. However, the momentum in developing this technology to its full potential must continue towards GRETA, a full 4{pi} calorimeter. GRETA will carry {gamma}-ray spectroscopy into the next generation where it will be needed to fully exploit the science opportunities at radioactive beam facilities and increase the reach of stable beam facilities. In addition, {gamma}-ray tracking technology will have important applications for science, medicine, and homeland security.

Abstract We develop a non-perturbative model for valence parton distribution functions (PDFs) based on the mean field interactions of valence quarks in the nucleonic interior. The main motivation for the model is to obtain a mean field description of the valence quarks as a baseline to study the short range quark–quark interactions that generate the high x tail of PDFs. The model is based on the separation of the valence three-quark cluster and residual system in the nucleon. Then the nucleon structure function is calculated within the effective light-front diagrammatic approach introducing nonperturbative light-front valence quark and residual wave functions. Within the model a new relation is obtained between the position, $$x_p$$ x p , of the peak of $$xq_V(x)$$ x q V ( x ) distribution of the valence quark and the effective mass of the residual system, $$m_R$$ m R , in the form: $$x_{p} \approx {1\over 4} (1-{m_R\over m_N})$$ x p ≈ 1 4 ( 1 - m R m N ) at starting $$Q^2$$ Q 2 . This relation explains the difference in the peak positions for d- and u-quarks through the expected difference of residual masses for valence d- and u-quark distributions. The parameters of the model are fixed by fitting the calculated valence quark distributions to the phenomenological PDFs. This allowed us to estimate the overall mean field contribution in baryonic and momentum sum rules for valence d- and u-quarks. Finally, the evaluated parameters of the non-perturbative wave functions of valence 3q-cluster and residual system can be used in calculation of other quantities such as nucleon form factors, generalized partonic and transverse momentum distributions.

Observation of the onset of color transparency in baryons would provide a new means of studying the nuclear strong force and would be the first clear evidence of baryons transforming into a color-neutral point-like size in the nucleus as predicted by quantum chromodynamics. Recent C(e,e′p) results from electron-scattering did not observe the onset of color transparency (CT) in protons up to spacelike four-momentum transfers squared, Q2=14.2 GeV2. The traditional methods of searching for CT in (e,e′p) scattering use heavy targets favoring kinematics with already initially reduced final state interactions (FSIs) such that any CT effect that further reduces FSIs will be small. The reasoning behind this choice is the difficulty in accounting for all FSIs. D(e,e′p)n, on the other hand, has well-understood FSI contributions from double scattering with a known dependence on the kinematics and can show an increased sensitivity to hadrons in point-like configurations. Double scattering is the square of the re-scattering amplitude in which the knocked-out nucleon interacts with the spectator nucleon, a process that is suppressed in the presence of point-like configurations and is particularly well-studied for the deuteron. This suppression yields a quadratic sensitivity to CT effects and is strongly dependent on the choice of kinematics. Here, we describe a possible Jefferson National Accelerator Facility (JLab) electron-scattering experiment that utilizes these kinematics and explores the potential signal for the onset of CT with enhanced sensitivity as compared to recent experiments.

Examining the evolution of the maximum of valence quark distribution, qV, weighted by Bjorken x, h(x,t)≡xqV(x,t), it is observed that h(x,t) at the peak becomes a one-parameter function; h(xp,t)=Φ(xp(t)), where xp is the position of the peak, t=logQ2, and Q2 is the resolution scale. This observation is used to derive a new model-independent relation which connects the partial derivative of the valence parton distribution functions (PDFs) in xp to the quantum chromodynamics (QCD) evolution equation through the xp derivative of the logarithm of the function Φ(xp(t)). A numerical analysis of this relation using empirical PDFs results in an observation of the exponential form of the Φ(xp(t))=h(xp,t)=CeDxp(t) for leading to next-to-next leading order approximations of PDFs for the range of Q2, covering four orders in magnitude. The exponent, D, of the observed “height-position” correlation function converges with the increase in the order of approximation. This result holds for all the PDF sets considered. A similar relation is observed also for the pion valence quark distribution, indicating that the obtained relation may be universal for any non-singlet partonic distribution. The observed “height-position” correlation is used also to indicate that no finite number of exchanges can describe the analytic behavior of the valence quark distribution at the position of the peak at fixed Q2.

We report the first measurement of the (e,e^{'}p) three-body breakup reaction cross sections in helium-3 (^{3}He) and tritium (^{3}H) at large momentum transfer [⟨Q^{2}⟩≈1.9  (GeV/c)^{2}] and x_{B}>1 kinematics, where the cross section should be sensitive to quasielastic (QE) scattering from single nucleons. The data cover missing momenta 40≤p_{miss}≤500  MeV/c that, in the QE limit with no rescattering, equals the initial momentum of the probed nucleon. The measured cross sections are compared with state-of-the-art ab initio calculations. Overall good agreement, within ±20%, is observed between data and calculations for the full p_{miss} range for ^{3}H and for 100≤p_{miss}≤350  MeV/c for ^{3}He. Including the effects of rescattering of the outgoing nucleon improves agreement with the data at p_{miss}>250  MeV/c and suggests contributions from charge-exchange (SCX) rescattering. The isoscalar sum of ^{3}He plus ^{3}H, which is largely insensitive to SCX, is described by calculations to within the accuracy of the data over the entire p_{miss} range. This validates current models of the ground state of the three-nucleon system up to very high initial nucleon momenta of 500  MeV/c.

We present a new approach for the calculation of the valence quark distributions in the nucleon based on the scenario in which the spectrum of the valence quarks at x>0.05 is generated through three main mechanisms: interaction of valence quarks with the mean field generated by the residual nucleon system, two and three quark short range interactions through gluon exchanges. In the current report we present the first phase of the project in which we develop a non-perturbative model for valence quark interaction in the mean field of the nucleonic interior to describe their distribution in the moderate x region (0.05 < x < 0.4). The short range quark-quark interaction effects in our approach generate the high x tail of valence quark distributions. The presented non-perturbative model is based on the picture in which three relativistic valence quarks occupy the nucleon core at distances of $\le 0.5$ Fm while interacting in the mean field generated by the residual nucleon system. The calculations are based on the assumption of the a factorization of the internal interaction of short-range three valence quarks with the long-range interaction of these quarks with the residual system. The theoretical approach is based on effective light-front diagrammatic approach which allows us to introduce the valence quark and residual system wave functions in a consistent way The parameters of these wave functions are fixed by the position of the peak of the xf_q(x) distribution of valence quarks at Q_0 corresponding to the charm-quark mass. With few parameters we achieved a very reasonable description of the up and down valence quark distributions in the moderate x region (x < 0.4), where one expects the mean field dynamics to dominate. The model, however, systematically underestimates the high $x$ region where enhanced contributions from partonic short-range correlations are expected.