Observation of multiple scattering in (e, 2e) experiments on small argon clusters

A kinematically complete experiment for 100 eV electron-impact ionization of small argon clusters was realized. The triple coincidence detection of both outgoing electrons and the residual ion allows the discrimination between single ionization of atoms, dimers and non-mass-selected small clusters as well as between ionization and excitation within the same cluster. Comparison of fully and partly differential ionization cross sections for clusters with those of atoms reveal clear signatures of multiple-scattering reactions. For ionization with excitation, an almost isotropic electron emission pattern is observed.