Relaxation and Backscattering of Light Ions in a Semi-Infinite Medium

Abstract

Abstract Relaxation and backscattering of light ions of moderate energy ( ≲ 1 keV) in solid walls are investigated applying the normal Boltzmann equation to a semi-infinite medium, thereby satisfying the exact boundary conditions at the wall surface. Since momentum and energy relax on different scales, Boltzmann's equation is solved in a two scale procedure, treating momentum and energy relaxation separately. Matching the two regions self-consistently yields the ion distribution function and with that macroscopic quantities, e.g. the range distribution and the spectral reflexion coefficient. The application of the method is demonstrated for a simple test model with constant nuclear scattering cross section and no electronic losses.