Electron–molecule scattering cross-sections. I. Experimental techniques and data for diatomic molecules

Experimental collision cross-sections for electron-molecule scattering processes at low to intermediate energies (meV–100 eV) are compiled and critically reviewed. Recent advances in experimental techniques are summarised. Of principle interest are differential, total and momentum transfer cross-sections for elastic scattering and rotational, vibrational and electronic excitation processes. Wherever possible, available theoretical cross-sections are also compared and discussed. Resonance effects, whilst not treated explicitly, are discussed in the context of the enhancement they produce in the various scattering cross-sections. Scattering from excited molecules is also considered.