Hyperthermal surface ionization of mercury from Pt(111)
Phys. Rev. Lett. 65, 2038 – Published 15 October, 1990
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.65.2038
Abstract
The Pt(111)-surface ionization of hyperthermal mercury atoms (4–10 eV) was studied in helium- and hydrogen-seeded supersonic molecular beams. In spite of the large energy difference of 4.7 eV between the atomic ionization potential and the surface work function, an efficient ionization was observed. The ionization mechanism is discussed in terms of an extensive energy transfer to the surface and the creation of a transient local hot spot. Analytical applications are mentioned.