Toward a Comprehensive Understanding of Low-Energy Electron Energy Loss Spectra of Amorphous Ice

The scattering cross section is a key input for track-structure models of electron transport in condensed water. However, controversy, limited measurements, and the absence of consensus regarding liquid water data complicate model development. To address this, we reproduced electron energy loss spectroscopy measurements of amorphous solid water films, employing cross section data derived directly from those experiments. Two low-energy electron cases (14.3 and 19 eV) were simulated, successfully replicating reported spectra. Analysis reveals that direct reflection of incident electrons at the film surface contributes strongly to the zero-loss peak, while the escape of secondary electrons from the bulk accounts for high-loss features. By identifying and incorporating parameters such as surface roughness and secondary electron escape probability, the study offers a more accurate description of underlying processes. These findings provide improved confidence in cross section validity and support the model's reliable application to studies of electron interactions in liquid water.