Generalized Stokes parameter approach for analysis of perfect scattering experiments on impact excitation by spin polarized particles

The authors define 'generalized Stokes parameters' for scattered-projectile-polarized-photon coincidence experiments after impact excitation of unpolarized heavy atoms by spin polarized projectiles. Using electron-impact excitation of the (6s 2 ) 1 S O e to (6s6p) 3 P 1 o transition in Hg as the primary example, the authors demonstrate how a 'perfect scattering experiment' without analysis of the projectile spin after the collision can provide the eleven independent parameters that determine the six independent scattering amplitudes.