Charge transfer: symmetrised non-resonance in fast or slow collisions

Abstract

A novel and refined theory of charge transfer is introduced using multicomponent kets. The two-state non-resonant impact parameter version for fast collisions is developed using two-components kets, and is shown to have all the attributes of the refined orthogonal treatment of Bates (1958). An additional bonus is that the matrix elements are symmetrised, thus eliminating any post-prior discrepancy. The two-component ket ensures a complete set, viewed from the space of momentum translation factors, and at finite internuclear separations permits the correct assessment of the quantal change in translational kinetic energy of the electron being captured. The theory is also extended to cover more than two states and indeed the molecular treatment of two or more states at low velocities.