Rate coefficients for resonant vibrational excitation of CO

Abstract

Rate coefficients for vibrational excitation of the carbon-monoxide molecule, via the 2Π shape resonance in the energy region from 0 eV to 5 eV have been calculated. Calculations are performed for a Maxwellian electron energy distribution by using our recent experimentally measured differential cross sections for excitation of the first 10 vibrational levels. By using extended Monte Carlo simulations the electron energy distribution functions (EEDFs) and rate coefficients are determined in non-equilibrium conditions, in the presence of a homogeneous electric field. Calculations are performed for typical, moderate values of the electric field over gas number density ratios, E/N. A difference between Maxwellian and non-equilibrium rate coefficients was found due to a specific shape of the electron energy distribution function under the considered conditions. © 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.