Charge-state distributions of few-electron ions deduced from atomic cross sections

Abstract

A model for the evolution of charge-state distributions of fast heavy ions in solid targets is formulated, applying to the case when highly stripped ions are produced. Starting from atomic cross sections, the authors calculate the evolution of the individual populations in 1s, 2s and 2p subshells resulting from a dynamical competition between atomic processes, like electron capture, ionisation, excitation, and radiative decay processes. The final charge-state fractions are calculated by combining these individual populations. Numerical calculations are compared with experimental data for 7 MeV u-1 Fe and 35 MeV u-1 Kr ions in various targets.