Characterizing resonances in positron-sodium scattering

Abstract

We investigate resonances in positron-sodium scattering using the $R$-matrix propagation method formulated in hyperspherical coordinates. The interaction between the sodium core and the valence electron is described by analytical model potentials. High partial-wave resonances are calculated for collision energies up to the Na($4f$) threshold. Several resonant states of debated character are identified, and their behavior is analyzed through phase-variation studies, the associated structures in the calculated cross sections, and the characteristic patterns observed in the stability plots. The calculated dipole series of resonances, supported by the ion-dipole interaction between Na${}^{+}$ and Ps($n=2$), shows good agreement with recent complex-scaling calculations. In addition, a sequence of quasi-dipole resonances is found to arise from the near degeneracy of the Na($4d$) and Na($4f$) states in the e${}^{+}$-Na system, which accumulate geometrically toward the Na($4d$) threshold.

16 pages,45 figures