Quantum mechanical model for Rutherford backscattering of ion beams by thin crystalline lattices

Abstract

During the 1960s there was much discussion about the transition from a quantal to a classical description of ion-beam channeling. There is no reason why a quantal model should not be used. However, no such calculations have been attempted. We present a fully quantum mechanical model for Rutherford backscattering of an ion beam from a thin crystalline lattice. Good agreement with experimental Rutherford backscattering angular scans is demonstrated. The transition from the quantal to the classical model is discussed. © 1999 The American Physical Society.