Total cross section measurements for electron scattering on CH4 from 4 to 300 eV

Total cross sections have been measured for electron scattering on CH 4 in the 4–300 eV energy range utilizing a linear attenuation technique. The present results are compared with existing experimental data of other groups in this energy range. Generally, a good agreement with other experimental data is found except with those of Barbarito, Basta and Caliechio and Sueoka and Mori. The total electron scattering cross sections below 10 eV are inconsistent with available integral elastic scattering cross sections. It is suggested that the elastic data are in error and should be remeasured.