Electron-molecule scattering cross-sections. I. Experimental techniques and data for diatomic molecules

Experimental collision cross-sections for electron-molecule scattering processes at low to intermediate energies (meV-100 eV) are compiled and critically reviewed. Recent advances in experimental techniques are summarised. Of principle interest are differential, total and momentum transfer cross-sections for elastic scattering and rotational, vibrational and electronic excitation processes. Wherever possible, available theoretical cross-sections are also compared and discussed. Resonance effects, whilst not treated explicitly, are discussed in the context of the enhancement they produce in the various scattering cross-sections. Scattering from excited molecules is also considered.