High-resolution vibrational electron-energy-loss spectra of amorphous ice films condensed at 14 K are reported for the incident-energy range 1–18 eV. Absolute electron scattering cross sections for elastic collisions, individual vibrational excitations, and the sum of electronic transitions are obtained by performing a two-stream multiple-scattering analysis of the spectra. The various features found in the energy-dependent cross sections are discussed, whenever possible, by comparison with data and mechanisms (e.g., transient anion formation) well established in the gas phase. Quantum-interference effects introduced implicitly in the cross sections by the classical analysis are discussed within the first Born approximation for electron–multiple-site scattering.

• Received 26 May 1987

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevA.36.4684