[help] about electron-ion collision

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In summary: The energy flow or transfer in this process is dependent on the specific conditions and particles involved. Therefore, it is difficult to provide a definite answer without more information. In summary, the conversation discusses the phenomenon of ionization and the role of energy in electron-ion collisions. It is noted that there is no difference in energy transfer between an ion and an electron traveling at high velocities. The possibility of ionization occurring during collisions is also mentioned. However, the exact energy flow and transfer in this process may vary depending on the specific conditions and particles involved.
  • #1
ada_ada_2002
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Hi there.
What happens during the electron -ion collision when the velocity of ion is higher than that of electrons? How the energy transports? Can ionization happens?
Thank you so much!
 
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  • #2
I know that bombarding ions with electrons with sufficient energy can result in ionization. The collisions may tend to strip atoms of their electrons.
 
  • #3
ada_ada_2002 said:
Hi there.
What happens during the electron -ion collision when the velocity of ion is higher than that of electrons? How the energy transports? Can ionization happens?
Thank you so much!

There is no difference between an ion traveling at high velocities compared to an electron and vice versa. Both the electron and the ion could be "seen" to be stationary in relation to the other.
 
  • #4
Thank you!
One thing I don't understand is: in this condition, the energy of ion is much much higher than that of electron, how can ion gain more energy? (ionization means ion's energy increases, right?)
 
  • #5
ada_ada_2002 said:
Thank you!
One thing I don't understand is: in this condition, the energy of ion is much much higher than that of electron, how can ion gain more energy? (ionization means ion's energy increases, right?)

Ionization means that an atom will lose or gain 1 or more electrons and go from a neutral atom to a charged one, either positive or negative charge.
A highly energetic Ion colliding with a static electron could cause further electrons to be lost from the Ion, increasing it's positive charge even further. However I think it is usually the opposite case where an electron collides with an atom or ion and causes ionization.
 
  • #6
Thank you, Drakkith. I will think about it. I can imagine the picture, I am just not clear about the energy flow/transport in this process.
 
  • #7
ada_ada_2002 said:
Thank you, Drakkith. I will think about it. I can imagine the picture, I am just not clear about the energy flow/transport in this process.

From your frame the electron gains energy from the ion, and if ionization occurs then it uses the kinetic energy of the ion as well.
 

1. What is an electron-ion collision?

An electron-ion collision occurs when an electron collides with an ion, causing a transfer of energy or momentum between the two particles. This collision can lead to various physical processes, such as ionization or excitation.

2. How does an electron-ion collision affect an atom or molecule?

An electron-ion collision can change the energy level and charge of an atom or molecule, leading to changes in its chemical and physical properties. It can also cause the emission of photons or the creation of new particles.

3. What factors influence the outcome of an electron-ion collision?

The outcome of an electron-ion collision is influenced by factors such as the energy and velocity of the colliding particles, as well as the types of particles involved and the angle of collision.

4. What are some applications of studying electron-ion collisions?

Studying electron-ion collisions is important in fields such as plasma physics, atmospheric science, and astrophysics. It can also be used in technologies such as plasma-based materials processing and particle accelerators.

5. How do scientists study electron-ion collisions?

Scientists study electron-ion collisions using a variety of experimental and theoretical methods. These include particle accelerators, lasers, and computer simulations. They also use mathematical models and theories to understand the behavior of particles during collisions.

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