Nuclear pionic Cherenkov-like radiation from high energy nucleons

The possibility of nuclear pionic Cherenkov-like radiation (NPICR) produced by high energy nucleons passing through a nuclear medium is investigated using a quantum theoretical approach. The pion refractive indices and the NPICR thresholds are calculated. Three pionic Cherenkov-like bands, in the regions 190–315 MeV, 910–960 MeV, 80–1000 GeV, are predicted. The cross sections as well as other essential signatures of coherent pion production via NPICR with high energy proton beams are presented.