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Electron-proton radiative recombination in the solar wind

Tamaz Kereselidze1,*, Irakli Noselidze2, and Malcolm Druett3

  • *Contact author: tamaz.kereselidze@tsu.ge
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Phys. Rev. D 112, 123029 – Published 16 December, 2025

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/gyhl-92fs

Abstract

We investigate radiative recombination under conditions where both electrons and protons are in motion, thereby avoiding the stationary-ion approximation. The recombination cross section and rate coefficient are evaluated as functions of the kinematic parameters, with emphasis on regimes characteristic of the solar atmosphere, solar wind, and heliosphere. Particular attention is given to the impact of proton motion on the recombination rate. The total cross section is evaluated within the framework of nonrelativistic quantum electrodynamics, appropriate for particle energies typical of the solar atmosphere and solar wind. The results demonstrate that accounting for proton motion enhances the overall recombination rate.

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Phys. Rev. D 112, 123029– Published 16 December, 2025
  • Received 1 October 2025
  • Accepted 17 November 2025
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