Electron–ion interactions for trapped highly charged Ge ions

Abstract

A theoretical simulation of complex K X-ray spectra including those from dielectronic recombination and excitation processes is presented for trapped highly charged germanium ions ( Geq+, q = 27–30) interacting with a dense electron beam. We carried out numerical calculations of transition rates, level energies, transition wavelengths, resonance and collision strengths, and satellite intensity factors. Analytical results related to cross sections of B- through He-like Ge ions were obtained as well. The simulated spectra, including the contribution from different charge states of Ge27+–Ge30+, show good overall agreement over a wide electron energy range with the available X-ray measurements from the Heidelberg electron beam ion trap (EBIT). We have also predicted the electron impact excitation cross-section ratios for different transitions of Ge29+ and Ge30+ ions. It should be emphasized that the present analysis can also provide new information and clues of possible temperature measurements for EBIT and other plasma diagnostics.PACS No.: 32.30.Rj