Spin dynamics in AGS and RHIC

A fundamental aspect of particle physics is the spin of the particles. With polarized beams, the internal structure of the proton may be probed in ways that are unattainable with unpolarized beams. The Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider (RHIC) has the unique capability of colliding protons with both transverse and longitudinal polarization at center-of-mass energies up to 500 GeV. In this paper we examine the methods used to accelerate and manipulate polarized proton beams in RHIC and its injectors. Special techniques include the use of a partial Siberian snake and an ac dipole in the AGS. In RHIC we use four superconducting helical Siberian snakes (two per ring) for acceleration, and eight superconducting helical rotators for independent control of polarization directions at two interaction regions.