Hybrid k T -factorization and impact factors at NLO

Abstract

Abstract In the hybrid k T -factorization formula, one initial-state parton momentum is space-like and carries non-vanishing transverse components, while the other is on-shell. We promote this factorization formula to next-to-leading order. Studying the partonic cross section, we identify all soft and collinear divergencies in the real and virtual contribution, and recognize that all non-cancelling ones can be attributed to PDF evolution, evolution kernel, and target impact factors. In result, we construct a framework that may be used to compute NLO impact factors in general. In particular, we recover known expressions for inclusive NLO quark-and gluon impact factor corrections.

Keywords

• Deep Inelastic Scattering or Small-x Physics
• Factorization
• Renormalization Group
• Higher-Order Perturbative Calculations