``Day 1'' Physics at RHIC: Predictions from RQMD

Heinz Sorge

Published 1999-05-04Version 1

I discuss predictions based on the transport theoretical approach ``relativistic quantum molecular dynamics''. They can be tested rather soon by the upcoming experiments at the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider at BNL (RHIC). Here I focus on the question whether hadronic observables are sensitive to the Equation of State (EOS) in the ultradense matter. A new version of RQMD has been developed recently in which the EOS can be varied, for instance like the one observed in lattice gauge studies. It is found that -- somewhat paradoxically -- the partial transparency of the two nuclei provides new avenues to assess the influence of baryon number in hot matter. One of the signals which are most sensitive to the dynamics is the directed flow of nucleons. As a function of rapidity it changes its direction three times. Surprisingly, even one of the most simple observables -- the average transverse momenta or slopes -- displays some significant sensitivity to the EOS in the phase transition region between hadronic and quark matter.