Electron scattering and transport in liquid argon.

Area of Science:

• Physics
• Condensed Matter Physics
• Atomic and Molecular Physics

Background:

• Electron transport in liquid argon is crucial for particle detectors.
• Previous models often used simplified approximations for electron-argon interactions.
• Accurate cross-sections are needed for reliable simulations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To revisit electron transport in liquid argon under an electric field.
• To develop a more accurate model using ab initio calculations.
• To assess the impact of advanced scattering treatments on electron transport.

Main Methods:

• Multi-term solution of Boltzmann's equation.
• Ab initio liquid phase cross-sections using Dirac-Fock scattering equations.
• Inclusion of multipole polarizabilities and non-local exchange treatments.

Main Results:

• Validated electron-argon potential by comparing gas phase cross-sections with experimental data.
• Demonstrated the inadequacy of local exchange treatments in liquid and cluster phases.
• The model accurately reproduced experimental drift velocities and characteristic electron energies.

Conclusions:

• Advanced ab initio calculations and a multi-term Boltzmann approach provide accurate electron transport predictions in liquid argon.
• The study underscores the importance of non-local exchange and coherent scattering for precise modeling.
• This work offers a robust, parameter-free model for electron transport phenomena in condensed matter.