The determination of low energy electron-molecule cross sections via swarm analysis

In this paper we discuss the swarm physics based techniques including the Boltzmann equation analysis and Monte Carlo simulation technique for determination of low energy electron-molecule cross sections. A multi term theory for solving the Boltzmann equation and Monte Carlo simulation code have been developed and used to investigate some critical aspects of electron transport in neutral gases under the varying configurations of electric and magnetic fields when non-conservative collisions are operative. These aspects include the validity of the two term approximation and the Legendre polynomial expansion procedure for solving the Boltzmann equation, treatment of non-conservative collisions, the effects of a magnetic field on the electron transport and nature and difference between transport data obtained under various experimental arrangements. It was found that these issues must be carefully considered before unfolding the cross sections from swarms transport data.