Close Coupling Theory of Positron Scattering from Alkali Atoms

Abstract

The close coupling equatious for positron-alkali atom scattering are written as a set of coupled momentum-space Lippmann-Schwinger equations. The alkali atom is represented by a frozen-core model based upon the Hartree-Fock approximation. The interaction between the positronium and the residual ion is modified by the inclusion of a core potential. Similarly, a core term is present in the interaction describing the rearrangement process. Close coupling calculations of positron scattering from sodium are performed in a model containing multiple sodium (3s, 3p, 4s, 3d, 4p) and positronium (Is, 2s, 2p) states. Cross sections are reported for an energy range from threshold to 50·eV; the total cross sections are in agreement with experimental data.