Towards a first estimate of the gluon Sivers function from $A_N$ data in $pp$ collisions at RHIC

Within a generalized parton model approach, with inclusion of spin and intrinsic transverse momentum effects, we show how the latest, highly precise, midrapidity data on the transverse single spin asymmetry measured in $pptopi^0, X$ by the PHENIX Collaboration at RHIC [1], can be used to get a first estimate on the still poorly known gluon Sivers distribution. To this end we also adopt the present information on the quark Sivers functions, as extracted from semi-inclusive deeply inelastic scattering data. This analysis updates a previous study by some of us where a first bound on this distribution was obtained [2].

Single Spin Asymmetries in l p(transv. pol.) --> h X processes and TMD factorisation

Some estimates for the transverse Single Spin Asymmetry, A_N, in the inclusive processes l p(transv. pol.) --> h X, given in a previous paper, are expanded and compared with new experimental data. The predictions are based on the Sivers distributions and the Collins fragmentation functions which fit the azimuthal asymmetries measured in Semi-Inclusive Deep Inelastic Scattering (SIDIS) processes (l p(transv. pol.) --> l h X). The factorisation in terms of Transverse Momentum Dependent distribution and fragmentation functions (TMD factorisation) -- i.e., the theoretical framework in which SIDIS azimuthal asymmetries are analysed -- is assumed to hold also for the inclusive process l p --> h X at large P_T. The values of A_N thus obtained agree in sign and shape with the data. Some predictions are given for future experiments.

On the potential role of the Collins effect in A_N in pp --> pion X

Transverse single spin asymmetries in pp --> pion X processes, while on a quite firm ground experimentally, are still a much debated phenomenological issue. We consider them in a transverse momentum dependent factorization scheme. After revisiting a previous result, we give new estimates of the Collins contribution by adopting the latest information on the Collins and transversity functions, as extracted from SIDIS and e+e- data.

TMDs, universality and factorization

We present a short overview on transverse momentum dependent parton distribution and fragmentation functions, giving their partonic interpretation and ways to access them. We then discuss the issue of their universality and its connection to factorization in perturbative QCD.

Update on transversity and Collins functions from SIDIS and e+ e- data

We present an update of a previous global analysis of the experimental data on azimuthal asymmetries in semi-inclusive deep inelastic scattering (SIDIS), from the HERMES and COMPASS Collaborations, and in e+ e- -> h1 h2 X processes, from the Belle Collaboration. Compared to the first extraction, a more precise determination of the Collins fragmentation function and the transversity distribution function for u and d quarks is obtained.

Single spin asymmetries in inclusive hadron production from SIDIS to hadronic collisions: universality and phenomenology

In a perturbative QCD approach, with inclusion of spin and transverse momentum effects, experimental data on azimuthal asymmetries observed in polarized semi-inclusive deeply inelastic scattering and e+ e- annihilations can be used to determine the Sivers, transversity and Collins soft functions. By using these functions, within the same scheme, we predict p(transv. polarized) p -> h + X single spin asymmetries in remarkable agreement with RHIC experimental data.

Transversity and Collins Functions: from e+ e- --> h1 h2 X to SIDIS Processes

We present [1] the first simultaneous extraction of the transversity distribution and the Collins fragmentation function, obtained through a combined analysis of experimental data on azimuthal asymmetries in semi-inclusive deep inelastic scattering (SIDIS), from the HERMES and COMPASS Collaborations, and in e+ e- --> h1 h2 X processes, from the Belle Collaboration.