Impact Parameter Dependent Parton Distributions and Transverse Single Spin Asymmetries

Abstract

Generalized parton distributions (GPDs) with purely transverse momentum transfer can be interpreted as Fourier transforms of the distribution of partons in impact parameter space. The helicity-flip GPD $E(x,0,-\text{Dps})$ is related to the distortion of parton distribution functions in impact parameter space if the target is not a helicity eigenstate, but has some transverse polarization. This transverse distortion can be used to develop an intuitive explanation for various transverse single spin asymmetries.

Comments: revised version, to appear in PRD