Three-dimensional cross sections for electron impact ionization of atoms and molecules

Using a multi-particle momentum spectrometer (reaction microscope), three-dimensional and fully differential cross sections (FDCS) for electron impact ionization are obtained, providing benchmark data for comprehensive tests of theoretical calculations. Since all final-state particles, including the scattered projectile were detected, a good momentum transfer resolution was obtained also for heavy targets like Ar. Results for ionization of the Ar 3p- and He 1s-orbitals by 200 eV electron impact are presented. The cross section patterns display rich structure, which is partially reproduced by theory, although differences persist out-of-the scattering plane. Kinematically complete experiments for electron impact ionization of simple diatomic molecules have attracted increased attention concerning molecular structure effects. (e, 2e) on He and H2 is studied at equivalent collision kinematics to explore the differences of atomic and molecular ionization. Here FDCS were obtained covering the whole solid angle.