Information about interaction potential from ionizing inert gases

In summary, an interaction potential is a measure of the strength and type of interaction between particles or atoms. Ionizing inert gases, also known as noble gases, are elements found in group 18 of the periodic table and interact with other particles through collisions. Factors such as temperature, pressure, and type of gas can affect the interaction potential of ionizing inert gases, which is important in various fields and for understanding their behavior in different environments.
  • #1
FunkyDwarf
489
0
Hey guys,

Got this question for a small essay:

"Explain how observations of electron impact ionization scattering from inert gas atoms provide information on the interaction potential, the electron momentum distributions of the electronic shells of the atom and the angular momentum of the bound electrons."

Now i know some vauge qualatative details, ie the relative size and rotation of the electron scattering lobes give information about the energy distribution of the electrons and i have some more information in my lecture notes however i am required to read outside, which is fine. The problem being all i can find are papers on the cross sections of ionization processes and no good introduction or information on how these experiments function really.

What i understand at a glance: the interaction potential will influence any back scattering of the incoming electron, ie at low energies it is emitted in the forward direction but 'dragged back' and will also impact on the ionization energy for the bound electron.

The summed momenta of the scattered electrons will be (i assume) the same as the sum of the incoming and bound thus one can infer the momentum of the bound electron.

And i assume that as usual angular momentum will follow a similar conservation law although I am not sure the details on spin except that perhaps if both electrons are emitted with the same energy they must have opposite spins (or does indistinguisability only apply for bound systems?)

I hope the above made sense, I am not asking for answers rather resources i can use (because obviously i can't reference this forum =) )

Cheers
-Z
 
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  • #2


Dear Z,

Thank you for your question. Electron impact ionization scattering from inert gas atoms is a valuable experimental technique for studying the interaction potential, electron momentum distributions, and angular momentum of bound electrons. I will provide you with some resources and information that can help you understand this process better.

Firstly, let's start with the basics. Electron impact ionization scattering involves sending a beam of electrons at an atom and observing the resulting scattered electrons. The energy and direction of the scattered electrons provide information about the atom's electronic structure.

The interaction potential between the incoming electron and the atom is determined by the electron's energy and the distance between the electron and the atom. At low energies, the electron is more likely to be scattered in the forward direction, while at higher energies, it can be scattered in any direction. This interaction potential also affects the ionization energy of the bound electron, as you mentioned.

Next, let's discuss the electron momentum distributions. When an electron is scattered from an atom, its momentum can be transferred to the bound electrons. This transfer of momentum can be observed in the scattered electron's energy and direction. By analyzing these parameters, we can infer the momentum distribution of the bound electrons.

As for the angular momentum of the bound electrons, the conservation of angular momentum applies in this process. The sum of the angular momenta of the incoming, scattered, and bound electrons must remain constant. This can provide information about the angular momentum of the bound electrons.

To learn more about this topic, I suggest looking into research papers and articles on electron impact ionization scattering. Some resources that may be helpful are "Electron Impact Ionization Cross Sections of Atoms and Molecules" by M. D. Williams and "Electron Impact Ionization of Atoms" by P. Richard.

I hope this information helps you in your essay. Remember to always cite your sources and to seek guidance from your professors if you have any further questions. Good luck with your research!
 

1. What is an interaction potential?

An interaction potential is a measure of the strength and type of interaction between particles or atoms. It describes the energy that is required for two particles to interact with each other.

2. What are ionizing inert gases?

Ionizing inert gases, also known as noble gases, are elements found in group 18 of the periodic table. They are characterized by their stable electronic configuration and lack of reactivity with other elements.

3. How do ionizing inert gases interact with other particles?

Ionizing inert gases interact with other particles through collisions, where they transfer energy to the particles. This can lead to the ionization of the particles, meaning they gain or lose electrons.

4. What factors affect the interaction potential of ionizing inert gases?

The interaction potential of ionizing inert gases can be affected by factors such as temperature, pressure, and the type of gas. At higher temperatures and pressures, the interaction potential increases due to increased collisions between particles.

5. Why is understanding the interaction potential of ionizing inert gases important?

Understanding the interaction potential of ionizing inert gases is important for various applications in fields such as physics, chemistry, and engineering. It can also provide insight into the behavior of these gases in different environments, such as in the Earth's atmosphere or in outer space.

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