Benchmarking intranuclear cascade models for neutrino scattering with relativistic optical potentials

The description of final-state interactions (FSI) in the large phase space probed neutrino experiments poses a great challenge. In experiments, which operate under semi-inclusive conditions, cascade models are commonly used for this task, while exclusive conditions FSI can be treated with relativistic optical potentials (ROP). We formulate ROP approach and model directly compared. feed NEUT events from distorted-wave impulse approximation calculation that uses real part an potential. Cuts on missing energy resulting applied to define set compared RDWIA calculations full agree proton kinetic energies $T_p > 150$ MeV carbon, oxygen calcium nuclei when realistic nuclear density is introduce cascade. For < 100$ cross sections differ shape differences magnitude larger than 50 \%. Single transverse variables allow distinguish different approaches FSI, but due non-QE contribution comparison T2K data does not give unambiguous view FSI. discuss electron scattering argue cut studied minimal confounding factors e.g. $e4\nu$. agreement lends confidence these as tool oscillation analyses sufficiently nucleon energies. These results urge caution small assessment assumptions relevant region strongly encouraged. This paper provides novel constraints proton-nucleus easily other event generators.