Atomic Relaxation Simulation in Geant4: Expanding the Possibilities

Abstract

The low-energy electromagnetic package Geant4 includes a component for modeling atomic relaxation of elements with atomic numbers ranging from 6 to 100. This process is initiated by creating a vacancy in the filled atomic shell as a result of the interaction between the incident particle and the target material atom. X-ray fluorescence and emission of Auger electrons are the results of the relaxation cascade. The integration of an atomic relaxation model within Geant4 significantly broadens the utility of the modeling toolkit, particularly in experimental scenarios linked to the subsequent examination of material properties via characteristic X-ray emission or Auger emission. This enhancement holds relevance for precision modeling applications, including microdosimetry, and the design and optimization of detectors rooted in nanotechnologies. The article delves into key aspects of the software development process, software architecture and design, providing comprehensive details about the implementation of the physical model.