New electron energy transfer rates for vibrational excitation of N₂

Abstract. In this paper we present the results of a study of the electron cooling rate, the production rates of vibrationally excited N₂(v), and the production frequency of the N₂ vibrational quanta arising from the collisions of electrons with unexcited N₂(0) and vibrationally excited N₂(1) molecules as functions of the electron temperature. The electron energy transfer rates for vibrational excitation of N₂ have been calculated and fit to analytical expressions by use of the revised vibrationally excited N₂ cross sections. These new analytical expressions are available to the researcher for quick reference and accurate computer modeling with a minimum of calculations.

Key words. Atmospheric composition and structure · Thermosphere · Ionosphere · Modeling and forecasting