Impact parameter method calculations for fully differential ionization cross sections

TL;DR

This paper improves the impact parameter method for calculating fully differential ionization cross sections by introducing a new, empirical-free approach that assigns impact parameters based on momentum transfer and classical scattering, validated on helium ionization.

Contribution

A novel method for impact parameter calculation in ionization cross sections that eliminates empirical assumptions and enhances accuracy.

Findings

Accurate impact parameters assigned for different momentum transfers.

Validated method produces reliable differential cross sections for helium ionization.

Improved agreement with experimental data.

Abstract

In this work our previous fully differential ionization cross section calculations using the semiclassical, impact parameter method are improved by a new method suitable to calculate impact parameter values corresponding to different momentum transfers. This goal is achieved by two successive steps. First, using the transverse momentum balance different projectile scattering angles are calculated for the binary and recoil peak regions as a function of the transferred momentum. Then, by treating the projectile scattering as a classical potential scattering problem, impact parameters are assigned to these scattering angles. The new method, which no longer contains empirical considerations, is tested calculating by fully differential ionization cross sections for single ionization of helium produced by fast C$^{6+}$ ions.