On the role of the Delta (1232) on the transverse nuclear response in the (e,e') reaction

The transverse nuclear response to an electromagnetic probe which is limited to create (or destroyed) a particle-hole ($ph$) or delta-hole ($\Delta h$) pair is analyzed. Correlations of the random phase approximation (RPA) type and self energy insertions are considered. For RPA correlations we have developed a scheme which includes explicitly the $\Delta$ and the exchange terms. Self energy insertions over $ph$ and $\Delta h$ bubbles are studied. Several residual interactions based on a contact plus a ($\pi + \rho$)-meson exchange potential are used. All calculations are performed in non-relativistic nuclear matter. The main effect of the $\Delta$ is to reduce the intensity over the nuclear quasi-elastic peak. Exchange RPA terms are very important, while the self energy depends strongly on the residual interaction employed. We compare our final result with data for $^{40}Ca$ at momentum transfer $q=410$ and $q=550$ MeV/c.