Journal article

Publication year: 2019

Journal: Journal of Physics G: Nuclear and Particle Physics

Volume number: 46

Issue number: 11

ISSN: 0954-3899

eISSN: 1361-6471

Open access status: Green

DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.1088/1361-6471/ab3830

Publisher: IOP Publishing

Abstract: 
Neutrino event generators are an essential tool needed for the extraction of neutrino mixing parameters, the mass hierarchy and a CP violating phase from long-baseline experiments. In this article I first describe the theoretical basis and the approximations needed to get to any of the generators. I also discuss the strengths and limitations of theoretical models used to describe semi-inclusive neutrino-nucleus reactions. I then confront present day's generators with this theoretical basis by detailed discussions of the various reaction processes. Finally, as examples, I then show for various experiments results of the generator GiBUU for lepton semi-inclusive cross sections as well as particle spectra. I also discuss features of these cross sections in terms of the various reaction components, with predictions for Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment. Finally, I argue for the need for a new neutrino generator that respects our present-day knowledge of both nuclear theory and nuclear reactions and is as much state-of-the-art as the experimental equipment. I outline some necessary requirements for such a new generator.

Harvard Citation style: Mosel, U. (2019) Neutrino event generators: foundation, status and future, Journal of Physics G: Nuclear and Particle Physics, 46(11), Article 113001. https://doi.org/10.1088/1361-6471/ab3830

APA Citation style: Mosel, U. (2019). Neutrino event generators: foundation, status and future. Journal of Physics G: Nuclear and Particle Physics. 46(11), Article 113001. https://doi.org/10.1088/1361-6471/ab3830