Sideward flow in Au plus Au collisions between 2A and 8A GeV

Using the large acceptance Time Projection Chamber of experiment E895 at Br ookhaven, measurements of collective sideward flow in Au + Au collisions at beam energies of 2A, 4A, 6A, and 8A GeV are presented in the form of in-pl ane transverse momentum [p(x)] and the first Fourier coefficient of azimuth al anisotropy vl. These measurements indicate a smooth variation of sidewar d now as a function of beam energy. The data are compared with four nuclear transport models which have an orientation towards this energy range. All four exhibit some qualitative trends similar to those found in the data, al though none show a consistent pattern of agreement within experimental unce rtainties.