Electron-scattering cross sections and stopping powers in H2 O

Abstract

Total electron- H2 O scattering cross sections have been measured from 50 to 5000 eV with experimental errors of about 5%. Integral elastic and inelastic cross sections have been calculated over a broad energy range (1-10 000 eV) with an optical potential method assuming an independent atom representation. Dipole rotational excitations have also been included in the framework of the first Born approximation. From a detailed evaluation of the present results and their comparison with previous theoretical and experimental data, a set of recommended integral cross sectional data is provided. By combining these data with an average excitation energy derived from the experimental energy loss spectra, the stopping power of electrons in H2 O has been obtained from 5 to 5000 eV. © 2007 The American Physical Society.