Modelling low-energy electron–molecule capture processes

Abstract

Cross sections and rate coefficients for capture of low-energy electrons with polar and polarizable target molecules are calculated in the framework of Fabrikant and Hotop’s extended version of the Vogt–Wannier model and an extension of this approach is given in the present article. Analytical approximations are derived in order to facilitate the application to experiments. A comparison with a selection of experimental electron attachment rate coefficients provides insight into the competition between anion formation through electron capture and scattering processes which do not follow this pathway.