Parton distributions in the shockwave formalism

Read full text
Authors: Shohini Bhattacharya, Chuan-Qi He, Zhong-Bo Kang, Diego Padilla, Jani Penttala
Cited by: 0

Abstract

A bstract In this work, we calculate a broad class of parton distributions — including parton distribution functions (PDFs), transverse-momentum-dependent distributions (TMDs), generalized parton distributions (GPDs), generalized transverse-momentum-dependent distributions (GTMDs), and diffractive parton distributions — directly from their operator-level definition in the shockwave approximation for the target nucleon. This approximation is valid in the high-energy limit of scattering, corresponding to the small- x regime. The shockwave framework allows us to employ the eikonal approximation and express the parton distributions in terms of Wilson-line correlators, naturally formulated within the color-glass condensate effective field theory. We present a comprehensive set of Feynman rules for evaluating parton distributions in this limit, and demonstrate how they can be systematically applied to calculate all phenomenologically relevant leading-twist parton distributions at leading order. This work establishes a unified starting point for future studies that aim to bridge the color-glass condensate approach with the partonic description of the nucleon.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Quantum Chromodynamics and Particle Interactions Cosmology and Gravitation Theories High-pressure geophysics and materials

Publication details

Journal / source
Journal of High Energy Physics
Volume
2026
Issue
4
Publication date
10 April 2026
Language
EN