Double ionization of neutral atoms, positive and negative ions by electron impact

Abstract

New experimental data on double-ionization cross sections of neutral atoms, positive and negative ions by electron impact are reported. These and other relevant data are compared with recent multiple-ionization semiempirical formulae extended for the case of two-electron ionization. Theory gives analytical dependence of the double-ionization cross sections on the main parameters of the collision system in a wide energy range. Far the He atom, He-like ions and H- ion high-energy asymptotic behaviour of the double-ionization cross sections are considered on the basis of a quantum mechanical treatment. Suggested cross section scaling for fast collisions, employing a target-effective nuclear charge, is in good agreement with experimental data.