Do small systems equilibrate chemically?

Ingrid Kraus

The Statistical Model successfully describes particle production in central Au+Au / Pb+Pb collisions over a wide range of energies. The parametrization of freeze-out conditions allows for extrapolations to LHC, predictions for various particle ratios are made. Two particle ratios can be pointed out which are best suited determine temperature and baryon chemical potential experimentally.

In reactions of small systems reduced strangeness production beyond canonical suppression is observed. We propose to extend the model by introducing correlated subvolumes. Under the assumption of local strangeness conservation within these clusters, particle production from Pb+Pb to p+p can be reproduced consistently. Extrapolations for p+p reactions at LHC will be discussed.