Scattering of Low-Energy Electrons from Polar Molecules

Abstract

Differential and total cross sections are predicted for low-energy collisions of electrons with polar molecules. The potential is due to a point dipole fixed to the molecule at its center of mass, the molecule is treated as a rigid rotator, and the first Born approximation is used. Each type of polar rigid rotator is treated: linear, symmetric top, and asymmetric top; and free radicals are discussed briefly. Reference is made to swarm experiments to indicate the validity of the theory.