Tensor Coupling and Vector Mesons in Dense Nuclear Matter

Abstract

The effects of magnetic interaction between vector mesons and nucleons on the propagation (mass and width) of the $\rho$-meson in particular moving through very dense nuclear matter is studied and the modifications, qualitative and quantitative, due to the relevant collective modes (zero-sound and plasma frequencies) of the medium discussed. It is shown that the $\rho$-mesons produced in high-energy nuclear collisions will be longitudinally polarized in the region of sufficiently dense nuclear matter, in the presence of such an interaction.

Comments: Plain Latex file. Three figures, not appended, may be obtained on request to abhee@tnp.saha.ernet.in