Computational approach to collisions with molecules in Earths atmosphere
Abstract
Collisions involving molecules are ubiquitous throughout the universe. Consequently, there is no shortage of applications that benefit from their quantitative understanding, particularly in the fields of atmospheric modeling, astrophysics, and fusion energy. In this project, we will apply the comprehensive quantum reaction techniques developed by the Curtin University Theoretical Physics Group to model electron collisions with the molecules comprising Earth’s atmosphere (N2, O2, OH, H2O...), and produce comprehensive collision data sets for use in plasma modeling applications. These datasets will include vibrationally and rotationally resolved electron impact excitation, ionization, and elastic scattering cross sections for scattering on the ground and excited (vibrationally and electronically) states of the molecules. Extension of the developed collision techniques to photon, positron, and heavy particle (e.g., proton) projectiles will also be investigated.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Feb 22, 2024
- Source ID
- FA23862314113
Entities
People
- Dmitry Fursa
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- Curtin University
- United States Air Force