Forward charge asymmetry in low-P T photoproduction of hadrons

The charged particle asymmetry, (n+−n−)/(n++n−), in inclusive photoproduction of charged particles on protons has been studied as a function ofx F andp T in the rangesx F >0 and 0

asymmetry is found to be positive and decreasing withEγ. Asymmetries of π's and K's in the final state have been obtained separately. Data from a carbon target show a significantly lower asymmetry. These results have been compared with a parton, recombination model which provides a qualitative explanation for the asymmetry and itsx F andEγ dependences. The model also gives a qualitative understanding of the lower asymmetry seen with the nuclear target.