Jet algorithms: a minireview

TL;DR

Jet algorithms are essential for translating complex hadronic final states into well-defined jets suitable for QCD tests. The minireview contrasts $e^{+}e^{-}$-style clustering (e.g., JADE, Durham) with hadron-collider approaches (cone, modified JADE, $k_{\bot}$, and its longitudinally invariant variant), emphasizing infrared safety, higher-order perturbative stability, and hadronisation effects. It finds inclusive $k_{\bot}$-type schemes generally offer better perturbative reliability, smaller nonperturbative corrections, and robust theory–experiment comparisons, while cone algorithms remain prevalent with caveats related to soft radiation and seed definitions. The work advocates prioritizing infrared/collinear safety and predictable higher-order behavior in jet definitions, anticipating further developments and potential new clustering strategies.

Abstract

Many jet algorithms have been proposed in the past to study the hadronic final state in E+E-, EP and PP collisions. Here we review some of the most popular, mainly concentrating on the jet algorithms used at HERA and TEVATRON.