Multiplicity Dependence of Pion, Kaon, Proton and Lambda Production in p-Pb Collisions at \(\sqrt{s_{NN}}\) = 5.02 TeV

Abstract

In this Letter, comprehensive results on \(\pi^{\pm}, K^{\pm}, K^0_S\), \(p(\bar{p})\) and \(\Lambda (\bar{\Lambda})\) production at mid-rapidity (0 < \(y_{CMS}\) < 0.5) in p-Pb collisions at \(\sqrt{s_{NN}}\) = 5.02 TeV, measured by the ALICE detector at the LHC, are reported. The transverse momentum distributions exhibit a hardening as a function of event multiplicity, which is stronger for heavier particles. This behavior is similar to what has been observed in pp and Pb--Pb collisions at the LHC. The measured \(p_T\) distributions are compared to results at lower energy and with predictions based on QCD-inspired and hydrodynamic models.