Projectile interactions in theoretical triple differential cross sections for simultaneous excitation–ionization of helium

Abstract

The importance of projectile interactions in triple differential cross sections (TDCS) is explored for the problem of simultaneous excitation–ionization of helium by electron impact using a new approach that we call the four-body distorted wave model (4DW). The 4DW model includes all projectile interactions, namely initial- and final-state projectile–target interactions, and the post-collision interaction between the two continuum electrons. Results are presented for an incident electron energy of 500 eV and are compared to experimental data, as well as a second-order R-matrix theory and the first Born approximation. Results for absolute TDCS ratios of ionization without excitation to excitation–ionization are also presented.