The energy-deposition model: electron loss of heavy ions in collisions with neutral atoms at low and intermediate energies

Abstract

Single- and multiple-electron loss processes of heavy many-electron ions (positive and negative) in collisions with neutral atoms at low and intermediate energies are considered using the energy-deposition model. The DEPOSIT computer code, created earlier to calculate electron-loss cross sections at high projectile energies, is extended for low and intermediate energies. A description of a new version of the DEPOSIT code is given, and the limits of validity for collision velocity in the model are discussed. Calculated electron-loss cross sections for heavy ions and atoms (N+, Ar+, Xe+, U+, U28+, W, W+, Ge−, Au−), colliding with neutral atoms (He, Ne, Ar, W), are compared with the available experimental and theoretical data at energies E > 10 keV/u. It is found that in most cases the agreement between the experimental data and the present model is within a factor of 2. Combining results obtained by the DEPOSIT code at low and intermediate energies with those by the LOSS-R code at high energies (relativistic Born approximation), recommended electron-loss cross sections in a wide range of collision energy are presented.