Single electron tracks in water vapour for energies below 100 eV

Abstract

A new method to simulate single electron tracks, from 0 to 100 eV, in water vapour is described. In this method we employ as input parameters the experimental and theoretical electron interaction cross sections and also relevant experimental energy loss distribution functions. Most of the open inelastic processes (ionization, neutral dissociation, electronic, vibrational and rotational excitation) are considered in this energy range, as well as the elastic scattering channel. Angular distributions of the scattered electrons have been related to the momentum transfer, indicating some analytical regularity which allows us to greatly simplify the computational procedures. The determined simulated track structure has then been used to derive energy deposition profiles, and thus the induced radiation damage.