Collision physics is a research area within atomic, molecular, and optical physics that investigates the fundamental processes occurring when particles such as atoms, ions, electrons, or molecules interact and scatter. It focuses on quantifying cross sections, differential scattering distributions, energy and momentum transfer, charge exchange, ionization, excitation, and recombination in two-body and few-body collisions over a wide range of energies. The field employs quantum scattering theory, semiclassical approaches, and sophisticated numerical methods, and relies on accelerator-based, crossed-beam, and trap-based experiments to test interaction potentials, probe short-range forces, and benchmark many-body and plasma models relevant to astrophysics, fusion, radiation physics, and materials modification.
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