The role of electromagnetic form factors in meson exchange currents

The question of electromagnetic form factors, i.e. F ₁ ^V versus G _E ^V , to be used in isovector meson exchange currents in nonrelativistic calculations is critically reviewed. None of the various arguments given earlier in favour of F ₁ ^V have been found valid. Furthermore, model dependence of theoretical calculations on deuteron threshold disintegration due to e.m. form factor fits and potential models is found to be substantial. In view of these results, relativistic effects have to be included for a clear understanding of this process in the high momentum transfer region.