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AGU: Journal of Geophysical Research, Space Physics

 

Keywords

  • electron-impact excitation function
  • ionization oscillator strength
  • methane ionization cross section

Index Terms

  • Ionosphere: Ionization processes
  • Ionosphere: Ion chemistry and composition
  • Ionosphere: Modeling and forecasting
  • Space Plasma Physics: Laboratory studies and experimental techniques
  • Planetary Sciences: Solar System Objects: Saturnian satellites
Abstract
Cited By (3)
 

Abstract

Analysis of electron impact ionization properties of methane

Xianming Liu

Planetary and Space Science Division, Space Environment Technologies, Pasadena, California, USA

Donald E. Shemansky

Planetary and Space Science Division, Space Environment Technologies, Pasadena, California, USA

Published experimental photon and electron impact ionization cross sections of CH4 have been reviewed and analyzed. Absolute partial ionization oscillator strengths (f ij ) for CH4 +, CH3 +, CH2 +, CH+, H+, and H2 + have been obtained. Electron impact ionization cross sections are recommended based on agreement between the oscillator strength values derived from photoionization and electron impact measurements. Analytic functions for cross sections of CH4 +, CH3 +, CH2 +, CH+, C+, H2 +, and H+ produced by electron impact ionization of CH4 are established. The derived excitation cross-section functions are accurate from threshold to impact energies limited by relativistic effects (i.e., E < 0.2 MeV). The cross sections examined here are important for modeling Titan ionospheric chemistry.

Received 4 October 2005; accepted 6 January 2006; published 7 April 2006.

Citation: Liu, X., and D. E. Shemansky (2006), Analysis of electron impact ionization properties of methane, J. Geophys. Res., 111, A04303, doi:10.1029/2005JA011454.

Cited By

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