Resummation in Deep Inelastic Scattering

Abstract

Deep Inelastic Scattering is the process where an electron collides with a proton at high energies, thus serving as a probe for the internal proton structure. Precise computation of deep inelastic scattering cross sections is crucial for testing our current understanding of the Standard Model. The cross section for this process can be determined through perturbation theory for high momentum transfer. However, in the elastic limit of this process, perturbation theory breaks down, and nonperturbative QCD interactions cannot be ignored. Therefore, new techniques are needed to compute cross sections. Resummation is the process in which the perturbative series in the cross section is reordered and then resummed to give a prediction that includes nonperturbative QCD effects. In this paper we merge the resummed series into a redefinition of the partonic distribution functions. Through this new technique, the new redefined cross section converges quicker with each added perturbative order towards cross section values obtained through conventional resummation.