A note on obtaining symmetrical angular yield curves in MeV ion channeling

Planar channeling effects can distort the angular yield (dip) curve measured about an axial channeling direction. Two methods for minimizing distortion due to planar channeling are discussed: 1) varying the angles θ and φ of a two-axis goniometer together during the angular scan, and 2) remounting the sample so that a scan of only θ produces an undistorted symmetric dip curve. In practice, remounting the sample is preferred in order to minimize effects due to the mechanical limitations of the goniometer.