Reggeon quantum mechanics: A critical discussion

The quantum-mechanical problem of reggeon field theory in zero transverse dimensions is re-examined in order to set up a precise mathematical framework for the case μ = α(0) ? 1 > 0. We establish a Hamiltonian formulation in a Hilbert space for (ifμ > 0) and we prove the equivalence of the related eigenvalue problem with a “radial” Schrödinger-type equation in an L²(0, ∞) space. We prove that the S-matrix and the pomeron Green functions, at fixed rapidity Y and triple-pomeron coupling λ ≠ 0, have a spectral decomposition and are analytic in μ for ?∞ < μ < + ∞. For μ > 0, we confirm most of the qualitative results found by previous authors, and in particular the tunnelling shift [～ exp(?μ²/2λ²)] setting the scale for the asymptotic behaviour in Y.In the classical limit of λ/μ small we find that the action, for μ > 0, develops a singularity in Y at some value Y_c. We give arguments to show that for Y ? Y_c the perturbative result is reached, while for $\text{Y ? Y}{}_{\mathrm{<mtext>c</mtext>}}$ perturbation theory breaks down. Most of these results are shown to be stable against the addition of a small quartic coupling of the simplest type [$\text{λ′(}\text{Ψ}\text{Ψ)}{}^2$] up to the “magic” vvalue λ′ = λ²/μ. The existence of a level crossing at this value is confirmed by an analytic continuation in λ′.