Precise measurement of the neutron magnetic form factor from quasielastic 3→He(→e, e′)

Polarized ³He targets have proven to be a useful tool for studying the electric and magnetic form factors of the neutron, and the spin structure of the neutron. The neutron magnetic form factor at low Q² was previously determined at MIT-Bates from the quasielastic ^3→He(^→e, e′) process. A new experiment is planned at TJNAF to systematically measure the inclusive ³He quasielastic transverse asymmetry, AT′, at Q² = 0.1-0.5 (GeV/c)² with high statistical and systematic accuracy. A 2% statistical uncertainty is aimed at all the proposed values of Q², and 3% systematic uncertainty for AT′ can be achieved for this experiment. The precise data will constrain theoretical calculations of ³He quasielastic asymmetry. Furthermore, the neutron magnetic form factor at Q² = 0.1-0.5 (Gev/c)² will be extracted from the measured asymmetries with an overall uncertainty of 2%. Precise measurements of GⁿM at low Q² will resolve the discrepancy among the existing data in the same Q² region.

Duke Scholars

Author Haiyan Gao Physics