Differential cross sections for the up → dX reaction at 1.0 and 2.0 GeV

Inclusive deuteron spectra (d2σ/dΩdp) have been measured for the reaction, np → dX, at neutron energies of 1.0 and 2.0 GeV. The present data provide the inclusive deuteron formation cross section at the highest energy so far measured. A quasi-monochromatic neutron beam was used along with a liquid hydrogen target. Recoil deuterons at laboratory angles from 3deg to 15deg were tracked in wire chambers surrounding a 1.5 T·m dipole magnetic field. Particle identification was achieved using time-of-flight and momentum measurements. The momentum spectra of deuterons are compared with the prediction of a one-nucleon-exchange model with σ meson production. At 2 GeV, the missing mass spectra suggest the large role played by both the η and ρ mesons in deuteron production. (author)