Forward Charge Distributions Associated With Hadronically Produced J/psi Particles

Abstract

We have measured the forward charge as a function of x(,F) of the psi for events produced by 225 Gev/c (pi)('-) Be interactions. The forward charge is the average difference between the number of positive hadrons and negative hadrons produced in the forward hemisphere. The standard Drell-Yan model predicts that the forward charge should become less negative as the x(,F) of the J/psi increases. The measured forward charge becomes more negative as the x(,F) of the J/psi increases although it is consistent with being flat as a function of x(,F). Hence, the data is not consistent with any Drell-Yan type model which assumes the forward charge is not strongly dependent on the hadronic energy left over after the J/psi is formed.