Multiplicity distributions in separated phase space intervals of π+p collisions at 250 GeV/c

Abstract The charged particle multiplicity distribution is studied for non-single-diffractive π + p collisions at √ s =22 GeV, in central rapidity intervals separated from the outer regions by empty gaps. A priori unexpectedly, also these distributions yield good negative binomial fits. The variation of the parameter 1/ k as a function of the gap size can be understood in terms of cascading clans of limited rapidity range if events with a large number of clans preferably contribute to the central region. The Fritiof-3 model agrees quantitatively with the data.