The first spin-transfer experiment performed for the πd→→p→p reaction is described. Three spin-transfer parameters for this π-absorption process were determined, KLSa, KSSa, and KNNa, which correspond to the π-production parameters, KSLp, KSSp, and KNNp, of the time-reversed p→p→d→π process. Each observable was measured at a single angle for a number of energies spanning the Δ resonance of this system. The results are compared with the predictions of published partial wave amplitude fits which are primarily based on existing data for the time-reversed pp→dπ reaction, and also with the predictions of two current theories. The failure of these theories to describe the fundamental features of the data clearly demonstrates the need for further theoretical work in this area.
