When two electron beams cross paths in an accelerator, their interaction depends on several factors, including the relative energy, density, and beam parameters. The outcome of this collision can vary depending on these factors. Here are a few possible scenarios:
No interaction: If the two electron beams have low densities and do not overlap significantly in space and time, they may pass through each other without any significant interaction.
Scattering: If the electron beams have a significant overlap and a collision occurs, the electrons can scatter off each other due to electromagnetic interactions. This scattering can lead to changes in the direction and energy of the scattered electrons.
Synchrotron radiation: When high-energy electrons change their direction or accelerate due to the presence of the other beam, they can emit synchrotron radiation. Synchrotron radiation is electromagnetic radiation produced by charged particles when they are accelerated or deflected. This radiation can cover a wide range of wavelengths, from radio waves to X-rays, depending on the energy of the electrons.
Beam disruption: In some cases, the interaction between the beams can lead to beam disruption or instabilities. This can cause the beams to lose coherence or experience changes in their intensity or shape.
It's worth noting that the specifics of the interaction between two electron beams depend on the accelerator design, beam parameters, and the goals of the experiment. Accelerator physicists and engineers carefully design accelerators to control and optimize beam-beam interactions to achieve the desired experimental outcomes while minimizing unwanted effects.