Total Cross Sections and Event Properties from Real to Virtual Photons

A model for total cross sections with virtual photons is presented. In particular γp and γγ cross sections are considered. Our approach extends on a model for photoproduction, where the total cross section is subdivided into three distinct event classes: direct, VMD and anomalous. With increasing photon virtuality, the latter two decrease in importance. Instead Deep Inelastic Scattering dominates, with the direct class being the O(αs) correction thereof. Hence, the model provides a smooth transition between the two regions. By the breakdown into different event classes, one may aim for a complete picture of all event properties. ⋆To appear in the Proceedings of the International Conference on the Structure and Interactions of the Photon; Photon 2000, 26th-31st August 2000, Ambleside, England.