Effective transverse momentum in multiple jet production at hadron colliders

We consider the class of inclusive hadron collider processes in which several energetic jets are produced, possibly accompanied by colourless particles (such as Higgs boson(s), vector boson(s) with their leptonic decays, and so forth). propose a new variable that smoothly captures $N+1$ to $N$-jet transition. This variable, we dub $k_T^{\rm ness}$, represents an effective transverse momentum controlling singularities $N+1$-jet cross section when additional jet is unresolved. The ness}$ offers novel opportunities perform higher-order calculations Quantum Chromodynamics (QCD) using non-local subtraction schemes. study singular behavior ness}\to 0$ and, phenomenological application, use ensuing results evaluate next-to-leading order corrections $H$+jet $Z$+2 production at LHC. show performs extremely well resolution appears be very stable respect hadronization multiple-parton interactions.