Cluster Size Separation by Crossjet Deflection

Intersection of a beam of clusters with an uncondensed free jet leads to a size dependent cluster deflection. For large clusters the size distribution function may be obtained from the spatial distributions of mass flow and cluster sizes. Focusing of the average cluster trajectories results from the passage of regions of differing integral crossjet flow or of differing crossjet flow inclination. The limit of the resolution depends upon the prevailing type of collision, elastic reflection leading to a minimum beam spread proportional to the square root of the ratio of the beam and jet particle masses.