Optical model for electron scattering from inert gases

A local, complex potential is used to compute differential cross sections, spin polarizations, and total nonelastic cross sections for electrons incident on inert gases at energies ranging from 20 to 3000 eV. Excellent comparison with experimental data is achieved in most cases. In addition to Hartree-Fock wave functions, the input to the model involves two parameters. The strength $W$ of the imaginary potential is determined by fitting the total nonelastic cross section. The static polarizability $\alpha$ is well known from independent determinations.