Constraints on Disconnected Contributions in $\pi \pi$ Scattering

The accuracy of the lattice QCD computation of hadron-hadron scattering at low isospin depends critically on the ability to compute correlation functions with fermionic disconnected Wick contractions. This happens, for instance, in isospin $I=0$ $\pi \pi$ scattering, which receives contributions from rectangular and vacuum types of contractions among other easier calculable ones. Combining L"{u}scher’s formula and partially-quenched chiral perturbation theory, we provide precise theory predictions of the discrete energy levels extracted from specific linear combinations of lattice correlation functions corresponding to various types of contractions. Expressions are provided for extracting the unphysical low-energy constants in the partially-quenched chiral perturbation theory from the energy levels for these contractions. The predictions for the rectangular and vacuum contractions may serve as solid tests of the accuracy for existing and future lattice studies of $\pi \pi$ scattering.