Benchmark Calculations of Electron Impact Electronic Excitation of the Hydrogen Molecule

Abstract

We present benchmark integrated and differential cross-sections for electron collisions with H$_2$ using two different theoretical approaches, namely, the R-matrix and molecular convergent close-coupling (MCCC). This is similar to comparative studies conducted on electron-atom collisions for H, He and Mg. Electron impact excitation to the $b \ ^3Σ_u^+$, $a \ ^3Σ_g^+$, $B \ ^1Σ_u^+$, $c \ ^3Π_u$, $EF \ ^1Σ_g^+$, $C \ ^1Π_u$, $e \ ^3Σ_u^+$, $h \ ^3Σ_g^+$, $B' \ ^1Σ_u^+$ and $d \ ^3Π_u$ excited electronic states are considered. Calculations are presented in both the fixed nuclei and adiabatic nuclei approximations, where the latter is shown only for the $b \ ^3Σ_u^+$ state. Good agreement is found for all transitions presented. Where available, we compare with existing experimental and recommended data.