Journal of Physics B Atomic Molecular and Optical Physics
Analysis of an ion–atom collision at intermediate velocities by means of quantum trajectories
Lino Ponce
Abstract
We present the results of a quantum calculation designed to discuss the dynamics of an ion–atom collision at intermediate velocities. The description is based on a quantum fluid picture. The time-dependent Schrodinger equation is integrated numerically for a model proton–hydrogen collision and quantum trajectories are computed. By these means, we obtain a pictural view of the scattering process. Analysis of the resulting trajectories yields insights into the dynamics of the physical phenomena involved, with special emphasis on ionization.