A Monte Carlo simulation of collisional processes in a Townsend discharge in neon

We analyze the experimental and calculated electron excitation coefficients for 2p1-1s2 (Paschen notation) transition of neon determined in parallel plate drift tube for E/N values between 20 and 3000 Td (E-electric field, N-gas density, 1 Td=10−21 V m2). A null-collision Monte Carlo code was employed, representing the transport of electrons, ions and fast neutrals. The contribution of electron reflection at the anode is analyzed. A very pronounced excitation by fast neutrals was found above several kTd.