Eta and omega meson production in medium energy π+-p and K-p interactions

The production of eta(550) and ω(780) mesons is studied in π+-p interactions at 16 GeV/c and K-p interactions at 10 and 16 GeV/c. Cross sections for exclusive channels are presented, and for the π+p data differential cross sections are given for quasi-inclusive production where the eta or ω is required to be accompanied by charged particles only. Close similarities are observed between eta, ω and also rho0(770) production in terms of longitudinal and transverse variables. By a rough estimate, the eta, ω and rho0 inclusive yields are found to be in the ratio 0.32:0.85:1, respectively, for 16 GeV/c π+p collisions. For non-peripheral production this same ratio is estimated to be 0.34:0.9:1. (Auth.)