Exploring Λ– and Ξ–triton correlation functions in heavy-ion collisions

Abstract

The momentum correlation functions between the $\Lambda$- and $\Xi$-triton ($t$) in high-energy collisions are investigated. Notably, data obtained from the STAR detector presents a valuable opportunity to study the $\Lambda t$ correlation function. These functions are calculated using an Isle-type and spin-averaged $\Lambda t$ potential, with their sensitivity to variations in potential strength also examined. Although experimental data on the $\Xi$-triton interaction is currently unavailable, I have developed $\Xi t$ potentials based on first-principles calculations from the HAL QCD approach and the Nijmegen extended soft-core (ESC08c) model for spin- and isospin-averaged $\Xi N$ interactions, employing the single-folding potential (SFP) framework. Subsequently, the $\Xi t$ correlation functions are computed for these two modern potentials, as well as for the Nijmegen hard-core model D (NHC-D) $\Xi N$ potential. The numerical results suggest that, with sufficient measurement resolution, it may be feasible to distinguish between different potential models through correlation function analysis at relatively small source sizes, specifically within the range $ R = 1-3 $ fm.