Exploring a novel model for projectile charge state distribution inside a solid-target

Abstract

For the first time, we report a theoretical methodology to predict charge state distribution of projectile ions inside a solid-target. The method utilizes either a simple Fermi gas model or an ab initio theoretical method and a certain parameterization of width for the Lorentzian charge state distributions. Results obtained from the two approaches are comparable, but the former has a certain edge over the latter. The projectile charge state distribution inside a solid-target plays a significant role in estimating electron capture cross-sections and then to describe the observed K-shell ionization dynamics. The electron capture process plays a certain role in L-shell ionization dynamics too, but in a test case of Si on Au target the subshell charge sharing contributes a more vital role than the electron capture. Thus, we have validated the present model as a reliable as well as useful for many solid-target based applications viz. tumour therapy, biophysics, accelerators, material science etc.