[en] The mechanism of excitation of rapidly moving atoms in a crystal associated with irradiation of plasma waves is suggested. The probability of atom excitation during plasmon radiation is shown to increase with the frequency of transition approaching the plasma one. Excitation time τ_exc approximately 10^-14 and distance covered by the atom during this time in the film L_exp approximately 10³ A are estimated for He⁺ ion litting the aluminium foil at the velocity of v ≅ 10⁹ cmxs^-1. The distance L_exp identifies thickness of the metal film necessary for atom self-excitation