Abstract
Abstract For the elements C, Be, Mg, Al, Si, K, Ge, Sb, Bi calculations of the mean free paths and stopping powers of low energy electrons are performed. In the computational model Lindhard's formalism of the dielectric response function for pair and plasmon excitation and the classical cross‐section for ionization processes are used. Anomalously high mean free paths and small stopping powers in potassium are found. This behaviour which is connected with low electron concentration in the valence band is expected to hold for all alkali metals. For energies above 10 ke V the calculated dE/dχ agree well with values calculated from the Bethe‐Bloch formula. A Monte‐Carlo method is used for the calculation of the energy loss distribution of electrons passing through thin targets. It is noted that Blunck‐Leisegang's theory fails to render the energy straggling at electron energies below 10 ke V.