Abstract
We have measured characteristic $K$ x rays in coincidence with the scattered particles from collisions of hydrogenlike Ge ions with Kr atoms. The ions were first accelerated to 8.6 MeV/amu, post-stripped to H-like charge state, and decelerated to around 2.5 MeV/amu. From the measurements the probabilities for K-shell to K-shell charge transfer as a function of collision impact parameters were obtained. The probabilities show an onset of oscillations which are interpreted as quantum interference between the $K$-shell to $K$-shell electron transfer amplitudes in two spatially separated coupling regions in the incoming and outgoing parts of the collision. The probabilities of $K$-shell vacancy distribution created by the collision are calculated within a relativistic independent electron model using the coupled-channel approach with atomlike Dirac-Fock-Sturm orbitals. A reasonable agreement between the theoretical results and the experimental data is found.
Highlights
It has been found in numerous studies that in slow collisions of ions and atoms the atomic states can form moleculelike states, the so-called quasimolecular states [1,2]
The probabilities of K-shell vacancy distribution created by the collision are calculated within a relativistic independent electron model using the coupled-channel approach with atomlike Dirac-Fock-Sturm orbitals
We determined the probabilities for K-shell to K-shell charge transfer as a function of impact parameter for decelerated hydrogenlike Ge ions colliding with Kr atoms
Summary
It has been found in numerous studies that in slow collisions of ions and atoms the atomic states can form moleculelike states, the so-called quasimolecular states [1,2] This became evident in inner-shell ionization when the collision velocity was smaller than the Bohr velocity of the active electron. It is necessary to test such calculations starting from lighter systems to more and more heavy collisions to keep under control the complex quantum dynamics in such systems, where, e.g., relativistic and QED effects become important In this context, a frequently discussed question is the possible loss of coherence between the two parts of interfering amplitudes of K-shell transfer on the way in and way out of the collision by simultaneous electron transfer from the neutral target atom to the highly charged ion from higher shells in the collision.
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