Electron collisions in oxygen

Abstract

Collisions between electrons and oxygen molecules and ions have been studied using a mass spectrometer. The formation and subsequent ionization of O +(4S), O +(2D) and O +(2P) to form O2 + has been shown to take place. Appearance potentials for O2 + and O3 + formed by electron collision with oxygen molecules have been measured, as well as the ionization potential of doubly charged oxygen. The A 3Σu+ state of O22 + has been detected. The Wigner spin rule has been used to explain the different charge-exchange rates between the A 3Σu+ and X 1Σg+ states of O22 + and oxygen, nitrogen and argon gas.