Spin Structure Functions of the Deuteron

Over the past 20 years, an impressive data set on the inclusive spin structure functions g₁(Q², x) and g₂(Q², x) has been collected at many labs worldwide, on polarized proton, deuteron and ³He targets. The latter two targets are used to extract information on the neutron spin structure functions and their moments; however, nuclear corrections make the interpretation less straightforward (especially at low Q² and in the resonance region). The two different targets have different systematic uncertainties and advantages and disadvantages. In this paper, I present results on the deuteron from a recent experiment with CLAS at Jefferson Lab. I discuss some of the nuclear corrections and possible strategies for the extraction of neutron spin structure functions. Finally, I highlight some experimental strategies to learn more about structure function modifications in the nuclear medium.