A study of the inclusive reactions K+p → K∗(890) + X+ and K+p → K∗(1420) + X+ at 8.2 GeV/c

The K∗, very strongly produced in K+p collisions at 8.2 GeV/c, are separated out in an inclusive analysis. The key features of their missing mass and momentum transfer distributions are compared to those already seen in the K+p → Ko + anything, inclusive reaction and which are those expected from a simple Regge model. The K∗ results here reported are also compatible with such a model. An important contribution from pion exchange is required at small four-momentum transfers in contradistinction with what is found for quasi elastic production.