Structure of heavy mesons in the light-front quark model

We investigate the structure of ground-state heavy mesons within the light-front quark model, utilizing wave functions derived from the single Gaussian ansatz (SGA) and the Gaussian expansion method (GEM). By performing a χ2 fit to static properties such as mass spectra and decay constants, we determine the model parameters for each approach. We then compare the impacts of both methods on the light-front wave functions and structural observables. Our analysis reveals significant differences in the distribution amplitudes ϕ2;M(x) near the end points, with GEM showing enhanced amplitudes and correct asymptotic behavior ϕ2;M(x→1)∝(1−x), consistent with perturbative QCD. This end point behavior is linked to the short-range (high-momentum) wave function governed by color Coulomb interaction and relativistic kinematics. GEM accurately reproduces a power-law damping ψ0(k→∞)∝1/k⊥2, aligning with perturbative QCD predictions. Furthermore, the electromagnetic form factors of pseudoscalar mesons in the low-Q2 region fall off faster with GEM than with SGA. Overall, while both methods adequately describe static properties, GEM provides a more accurate description of structural properties, being more sensitive to details and asymptotic behaviors. Published by the American Physical Society 2024