Search for baryonic resonances decaying to Ξπ in deep-inelastic scattering at HERA

Abstract

A search for narrow baryonic resonances decaying into Ξ-π- or Ξ-π+ and their antiparticles is carried out with the H1 detector using deep inelastic scattering events at HERA in the range of negative photon four-momentum transfer squared 2 < Q2 < 100 GeV2. No signal is observed for a new baryonic state in the mass range 1600–2300 MeV in either the doubly charged or the neutral decay channels. The known Ξ(1530)0 is observed through its decay mode into Ξ-π+. Upper limits are given on the ratio of the production rates of new baryonic states, such as the hypothetical pentaquark states Ξ– 5q or Ξ0 5q, relative to the Ξ(1530)0 baryon state.