Exploring the nuclear pion dispersion relation through the anomalous coupling gamma ->gamma ' pi(0)

We investigate the possibility of measuring the pion dispersion relation in nuclear matter through the anomalous coupling in the reaction gamma --> ga mma'pi(0). If the pionic mode is softened in nuclear matter due to mixing w ith the delta-hole state, significant strength for this reaction is expecte d to move into the space-like region, which can be explored with this react ion. Competing background processes are evaluated, which are shown to be la rger than the pionic channel of interest. We conclude that the use of such a measurement to explore the pion dispersion relation might be untenable, a lthough difficult exclusive measurements might allow one to conquer the bac kground.