Experimental electron scattering spectrum of atomic carbon

Abstract

As a first step in the eventual measurement of the electron energy loss cross sections for atomic carbon, a 100 eV incident energy, 2° scattering angle electron energy loss spectrum of atomic carbon showing the 7.48 eV (1657 Å) and 7.94 eV (1561 Å) multiplets has been obtained. The carbon atoms were produced by 308 nm XeCl excimer laser vaporization of a graphite rod at a 150 Hz repetition rate. The measurement of the relative intensities of the two carbon multiplets, 2s 22p 2 3P→2s 22p3s 3P o and 2s 22p 2 3P→2s 2p 3 3D o, allows their relative oscillator strengths to be calculated. The results are in excellent agreement with theoretical values and experimental lifetime measurements.