Collisions of Xe(n f) Rydberg atoms with electron attaching targets

Abstract

This paper reports a study of Xe (nf) destruction in collisions with 1,1,1‐C₂Cl₃F₃ and C₅F₈. The primary Rydberg atom destruction process is collisional ionization that results in the formation of a positive and a negative ion. Rate constants for this reaction have been measured for Xe (nf) over the range 26 ≤n≤43, and the major negative ion products identified. Cross sections for Rydberg electron attachment derived from these and earlier measurements are in good agreement with recent free electron attachment cross sections obtained using swarm techniques. This agreement further confirms that the study of Rydberg atom collisions can provide information on very‐low‐energy electron interactions.