Commissioning of a fast fine-step electron-energy-scan system for electron-ion crossed-beams experiments

TL;DR

This paper details the development and commissioning of a rapid electron-energy scan system for precise electron-impact ionization measurements in a crossed-beams experiment, enhancing experimental flexibility and control.

Contribution

It introduces a novel high-power electron gun with a multi-electrode design and a new control system for fast, precise electron-energy scans in ionization experiments.

Findings

Successful commissioning of the electron-energy scan system

Enhanced control over electron beam parameters

Improved measurement capabilities for ionization cross sections

Abstract

We report on the commissioning of a fast electron-energy scan system for measurements of electron-impact ionization cross sections. The Giessen crossed-beams experiment employs a high-power electron gun which has been developed over recent years and which permits wide variations of the beam parameters. A multi-electrode design enables the decoupling of the electron energy from the electron density. The newly implemented control system, which governs the various electrode potentials, is described together with the salient technical features.