Modelling low-energy electron–molecule capture processes

Cross sections and rate coefficients for capture of low-energy electrons with polar and polarizable target molecules are calculated in the framework of Fabrikant and Hotop's extended version of the Vogt-Wannier model and an extension of this approach is given in the present article. Analytical approximations are derived in order to facilitate the application to experiments. A comparison with a selection of experimental electron attachment rate coefficients provides insight into the competition between anion formation through electron capture and scattering processes which do not follow this pathway.