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.
In proton-krypton charge-transfer collisions hydrogen is produced in the ground state and the krypton ions are preferentially populated in the ground (
2P23) state when the protons are incident at about 100 eV. The preferential population of
Kr+(2P23) over
Kr+(2P21) means that the hydrogen atoms will emerge spin polarized. We have calculated the spin-polarization fraction at 100 eV as a function of impact parameter and as a function of scattering angle, and the results are reported in this paper. A comparison of these results with the results of previous calculations of proton-xenon charge transfer indicates that the latter process is more suitable for producing spin-polarized hydrogen, at least for small scattering angles.