Fundamental Atomic Mechanisms in the Polar Cap.
Abstract
The 'detailed atomic cross section' (DACS) approach to proton energy deposition in N2 is extended by calculations of angular differential elastic cross sections for proton and hydrogen atom impact below 1 keV. These cross sections serve as a necessary input to Monte Carlo computations of the spatial aspect of the proton energy deposition. A detailed comparison of Monte Carlo and continuous slowing down approximation methods has been carried out to determine the importance of the stochastic and discrete nature of the energy loss process for protons at energies of 1 keV and lower. The comparison considers the gross features such as the efficiency for the excitation of a given state of N2 as well as more detailed features such as the spatial distribution for the rate of excitation of a given state. The detailed nature of the Monte Carlo model used allows the determination of the proton and hydrogen atom differential flux as a function of position. Analytical representations of these flux components provide a simple means for the transmission of the vast amount of data generated in the Monte Carlo computations.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1975
- Accession Number
- ADA011705
Entities
People
- Alex E. S. Green
Organizations
- University of Florida