Evolution of the ion velocity distribution after sudden turn-on of a periodic electric field: A charge exchange model

Abstract

An analytical solution to the problem of the ion velocity distribution evolution after turn-on of a periodic electric field is derived. The solution is constructed for the case of resonance charge exchange at a constant collision frequency (charge exchange model). The specific features of the transient process at the early stage of evolution are revealed. The phase shift between the applied field and the ion current at the periodic stage of the process is analyzed. The distribution function exhibits abrupt steps propagating in the velocity space. A method is proposed to study the ion-atom interaction cross section using a periodic electric field. The method is based on analysis of the current toward the electrode with a retarding potential.