Theoretical study on electron-free radical collisions: An application to SiH and SiF

Abstract

We present a theoretical study of electron collisions on SiH and SiF free radicals in the low- and intermediate-energy range. More specifically, calculated elastic differential, integral and momentum transfer cross sections as well as grand total (elastic and inelastic) and absorption cross sections are reported in the (1–500)-eV energy range. A complex optical potential is used to represent the electron-radical interaction while the Schwinger variational iterative method combined with the distorted-wave approximation is used to solve the scattering equations. Comparisons were made between the calculated cross sections for SiH and SiF as well as with the existing experimental and theoretical data for electron scattering by silane molecule. Some interesting aspects of this comparison are discussed here.