Highly charged atomic physics: Charge exchange and its application in X-ray astrophysical modeling
Abstract
<p indent="0mm">The collision of highly charged ions with neutral atoms or molecules is a fundamental process of quantum transition among multi-centers, which is characterized by unique features of a strong Coulomb field condition at the atomic scale, multi-channel involvement, and highly excited state population. Such collision processes are prevalent in various extreme matter environments, such as hot astrophysical plasmas, fusion, and fission processes, and serve as crucial diagnostic tools. Consequently, studying atomic collisions with highly charged ions is vital for testing fundamental collision theories and understanding complex physics in extreme-matter environments. Here, we reviewed theoretical and experimental studies of charge exchange dynamics and high-fidelity data production related to total cross-sections, state-selective cross-sections, and X-ray emission over recent decades. Additionally, we highlight the significance of laboratory studies in modeling cometary X-ray emission in the solar system and diffuse X-ray emission from other astrophysical objects. Finally, we are able to conclude that charge exchange is ubiquitous, and its studies can enhance the understanding of quantum transition dynamics in strong Coulomb fields and astrophysical X-ray modeling.</p>
