A classical two-dimensional (2D) model for an artificial atom is used to make a numerical "exact" study of elastic and nonelastic scattering. Interesting differences in the scattering angle distribution between this model and the well-known Rutherford scattering are found in the small energy and/or small impact parameter scattering regime. For scattering off a classical 2D hydrogen atom different phenomena such as ionization, exchange of particles, and inelastic scattering can occur. A scattering regime diagram is constructed as function of the impact parameter (b) and the initial velocity (v) of the incoming particle. In a small regime of the (b,v) space the system exhibits chaos, which is studied in more detail. Analytic expressions for the scattering angle are given in the high impact parameter asymptotic limit.
Original languageEnglish
Article number036606
Number of pages8
JournalPhysical Review E - Statistical, Nonlinear, and Soft Matter Physics
Volume75
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - 2007
Externally publishedYes

    Research areas

  • chaotic scattering

ID: 5090697