Abstract
The theory of ionization of highly excited atoms by neutral particles (atoms or molecules) is developed within the framework of the quasifree electron model. General formulae relating the ionization cross section with the differential cross section for electron-perturber scattering and with the momentum distribution function of the Rydberg electron in the initial atomic state, have been derived from the impulse approximation. These formulae are applicable for any arbitrary form of the amplitude of elastic or inelastic scattering of the slow electron by a perturbing particle. In the special case of the scattering length approximation, simple analytical expressions for the ionization cross sections and the rate constants have been obtained.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
