Scattering of Electrons and Positrons by Nitrogen Dioxide

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive theoretical investigation into the scattering of electrons and positrons from nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) molecules across a broad energy ranging from 1 eV to 1 MeV. The focus of the analysis encompasses a variety of cross-sections, including differential, integrated elastic, inelastic, total ionization, total, momentum transfer and viscosity. Additionally, the study explores the spin polarization effects within electron/positron-NO₂ scattering events. Utilizing a combination of relativistic Dirac partial wave analysis, the independent atom model (IAM), and the screening adjusted independent atom model (IAMS), this research achieves a refined understanding of scattering mechanisms. Comparative assessments with prior theoretical and empirical findings reveal that the IAM approach yields lesser accuracy at lower energies, while maintaining commendable agreement with existing data at medium to high energies. The insights and methodologies developed herein are anticipated to contribute significantly to the advancement of future research in this domain.