Novel subjet observables for jet quenching in heavy-ion collisions

Abstract

Abstract Using a novel observable that relies on the momentum difference of the two most energetic subjets within a jet $$\varDelta S_{12}$$ ΔS12 we study the internal structure of high-energy jets simulated by several Monte Carlo event generators that implement the partonic energy-loss in a dense partonic medium. Based on inclusive jet and dijet production we demonstrate that $$\varDelta S_{12}$$ ΔS12 is an effective tool to discriminate between different models of jet modifications over a broad kinematic range. The new quantity, while preserving the collinear and infrared safety of modern jet algorithms, it is experimentally attractive because of its inherent resilience against backgrounds of heavy-ion collisions.