Electronic processes induced by high energy H+, H 2 + and H 3 + -ions: A scaling relation

A scaling relation is proposed which interrelates measurable quantities in the field of atomic collision physics performed with high velocity H⁺, H ₂ ⁺ and H ₃ ⁺ -ions. The relation may be written as $$Q(H^ + ) - 2*Q(H_2^ + ) + Q(H_3^ + ) = 0,$$ whereQ denotes an excitation or ionization cross section or a total or differential secondary particle yield evaluated at the same projectile velocity. The scaling relation will be tested by comparison with experimental data of yields and spectra from ion-induced secondary electron emission measurements and with cross section data for excitation and ionization of atoms and molecules. In general very good agreement is observed for high projectile velocities (v>2 a.u.).