Recommended Data on the Electron Impact Ionization of Atoms and Ions: Fluorine to Nickel

Abstract

Experimental and theoretical cross‐section data for electron impact ionization of atoms and ions from fluorine to nickel has been assessed and earlier recommendations for light atoms and ions have been revised. Based on this assessment and, in the absence of any data, on the classical scaling laws a recommended cross section has been produced for each species. This has been used to evaluate recommended Maxwellian rate coefficients over a wide range of temperatures. Convenient analytic expressions have been obtained for the recommended cross sections and rate coefficients. The data are presented in both graphical and tabular form and estimates of the reliability of the recommended data are given.