Auger-like processes in multiple ionization of noble gas atoms by protons

Abstract

Based on the independent particle model, we consider single and multiple ionization of noble gas atoms induced by fast proton impact. Previous calculations are improved by accounting for time-delayed Auger-like electron emission processes on the basis of a straightforward statistical model. Results for proton–neon and proton–argon collisions are compared with experimental data. It is found that multiple ionization at high projectile energies (E > ≈ 1 MeV) is dominated by Auger-like processes and can be described appropriately by our model.