COMPUTER-SIMULATION OF SINGLE-ION TRAJECTORIES IN PAUL-TYPE ION TRAPS

The computer simulation of single-ion trajectories using a number of computer programs is described together with associated theory. The programs permit calculation of ion trajectories while the ion is subjected to collisions with buffer gas of variable pressure, resonance excitation in any of three modes, and static or ramped DC and radiofrequency levels. Initially, the programs were designed for the calculation of ion trajectories in a quadrupole ion trap. The programs now permit such calculations for ions confined in traps having electrodes shaped to include percentages of hexapole and octupole components in the electric field as well as electrode surface geometries for which there is no closed-form expression. The Langevin collision theory is reviewed and a theoretical treatment of the multipole trap is presented.