Collision cross sections and transport parameters in neon and xenon

Abstract

A self-consistent set of electron impact cross sections is reported for 24 neon and 13 xenon levels. Semi-empirical expressions are used which allow cross section calculations for impact energies from excitation thresholds up to the relativistic energy range. Therefore, they are effective for modelling electric discharges as well as electron-beam produced plasmas in any mixtures containing neon and xenon atoms, such as excimer lasers. The calculated cross sections are in general agreement with the experimental data obtained in electron impact energy loss spectra experiments. In addition, the Boltzmann equation has been solved, in the hydrodynamic approximation, for reduced electric fields in the range 10-3-103 Td. The predicted transport parameters are in agreement with the recent experimental data except for the 1s5 neon level. For this state, the measured excitation coefficient conflicts with that calculated.