Time-dependent aspects of electron degradation. V. Ar-H2 mixtures.

Abstract

Time-dependent electron degradation spectra and yields of initial products are studied for the Ar-H{sub 2} mixture by using the time-dependent Spencer-Fano (TDSF) theory. An integral form of the TDSF equation is derived and applied in numerical solutions. The present study shows, in the time-dependent context, that addition of a small amount of H{sub 2} in Ar greatly enhances the yield of the triplet states of H{sub 2} because of the presence of subexcitation electrons whose energies are below the electronic excitation threshold of Ar. The production of the triplet states is slow; it takes a period ten times longer than fast processes such as ion production. Secondary processes such as ion-molecule reactions following the electron degradation process are also discussed.