Inner shell and valence shell electronic excitation of ClF3 by high energy electron impact. An investigation of potential barrier effects

Abstract

Inner shell (Cl 2p, 2s and F 1s) and valence shell electron energy loss spectra of ClF3 have been measured under conditions of high impact energy (3-3.7 keV) and zero degree scattering angle. The Coulombic potential barrier model is found to provide an extremely satisfactory understanding of (a) the co-existence in ClF3 of intense shape resonances and also intense Rydberg transitions plus direct ionization; and (b) the number and symmetry of the continuum shape resonances observed in the ISEELS spectra of ClF3. The physical significance of the Coulombic potential barrier is further demonstrated in a comparison of the central atom inner shell spectra of SF6, ClF3 and HCl. © 1989.