Electron and photon collision phenomena in atoms, molecules and clusters

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What are the mechanisms responsible for the "Northern Lights" ? How can plasma etching of integrated circuits be made more efficient ? How can laser cooling and atom traps be used to obtain data about plasma collision processes ? In what ways do molecules like water break up, and what are the chances of getting particular fragments when they do ? What happens to the electrons which are released when X-rays or other high energy radiation enter our bodies ? How can beams of sulphur or nitrogen atoms be made for scientific or industrial use ? How are clusters different from solids or gases of the same material ?    These are just some of the questions that we will be trying to answer during the next few years. To help accomplish this we plan a wide range of sophisticated experiments involving beams of electrons, light and supersonically expanded gases. We will be using a variety of intricate detection devices and techniques, including mass, optical and electron spectrometers and a state-of-the-art laser-cooled atom trap. Many of the experiments are designed to provide accurate data for the refinement of current theoretical ideas. Close collaboration will be maintained with other scientists doing related work in Canada and around the world.    The research areas under consideration are either at the forefront of world research in this field or are motivated by the demands for information of industry, or from colleagues working at the cutting edge of other fields. In addition to their importance from a basic point of view, the data obtained will have significance for atmospheric and planetary physics, the photochemistry of the ozone layer, the aurora, plasma etching and deposition devices, electrical discharges, high-efficiency lighting, radiation damage in biological materials, nanotechnology, photonics and fusion energy generation.