Comparison of validation methods of simulations for final state interactions in hadron production experiments

Neutrino cross section and oscillation measurements depend critically on modeling of hadronic final state interactions (FSI). Often, this is one of the largest components of uncertainty in a measurement. This is because of the difficulty in modeling strong interactions in nuclei in a consistent quantum-mechanical framework. FSI models are most often validated using hadron-nucleus data which introduces further uncertainties. The alternative is to use transparency data where the hadron starts propagating from inside the nucleus and the probability of interaction is measured as a function of hadron energy. This work examines the relationship between the pi(+) and proton total reaction cross section and transparency from a simulation viewpoint.

Automated summary

Neutrino cross section and oscillation measurements rely heavily on modeling hadronic final state interactions, which often introduce large uncertainties. Validating FSI models using hadron-nucleus data adds further uncertainties. Alternatively, using transparency data to measure the probability of interaction as a function of hadron energy can provide insight into the relationship between pi(+) and proton total reaction cross section and transparency.