Comparison of quantum-mechanical and classical trajectory calculations of cross sections for ion-atom impact ionization of negative and positive ions for heavy-ion fusion applications

Igor D. Kaganovich, Edward A. Startsev, Ronald C. Davidson

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Stripping cross sections in nitrogen have been calculated using the classical trajectory approximation and the Born approximation of quantum mechanics for the outer shell electrons of 3.2 GeV [Formula Presented] and [Formula Presented] ions. A large difference in cross section, up to a factor of 6, calculated in quantum mechanics and classical mechanics, has been obtained. Because at such high velocities the Born approximation is well validated, the classical trajectory approach fails to correctly predict the stripping cross sections at high energies for electron orbitals with low ionization potential.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)6
Number of pages1
JournalPhysical Review A - Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Physics
Volume68
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - 2003

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics

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