On the electron dynamics in metal clusters: a Vlasov approach

We study the dynamical response of the valence electrons of sodium clusters to strong excitations through colliding particles. The electronic dynamics is described using a time-dependent local density approximation in the semiclassical approximation (Vlasov - LDA). The ionic background is modelled by a smooth jellium distribution. Fast proton - cluster collisions lead to an immediate stripping of electrons and a pronounced dipole excitation of the residual electron cloud.