Total cross-sections of electron and positron collisions with CHF3 molecules: a comparative study with CH4 and CF4

Total cross-sections for electron (e−) and positron (e+) scattering from CHF3 have been measured from 0.7 to 600 eV and compared with the theoretical elastic cross-section. For e− scattering, the cross-sections are found to be larger by 30% than the data compiled by Christophorou et al. [L.G. Christophorou, J.K. Olthoff, M.V.V.S. Rao, J. Phys. Chem. Ref. Data 26 (1997) 1] in the entire energy range measured, but their energy dependence is in good agreement. For e+ scattering, the cross-sections are smaller by at least a factor of two than those for electron scattering below 20–30 eV, but quickly approach those of electron impact beyond 100 eV. A comparative study with CH4 and CF4 reported in our previous papers provides detailed information on the dynamics.