  We present classical trajectory calculations of the rotational vibrational
scattering of a non-rigid methane molecule from a Ni(111) surface. Energy
dissipation and scattering angles have been studied as a function of the
translational kinetic energy, the incidence angle, the (rotational) nozzle
temperature, and the surface temperature. Scattering angles are somewhat
towards the surface for the incidence angles of 30, 45, and 60 degree at a
translational energy of 96 kJ/mol. Energy loss is primarily from the normal
component of the translational energy. It is transfered for somewhat more than
half to the surface and the rest is transfered mostly to rotational motion. The
spread in the change of translational energy has a basis in the spread of the
transfer to rotational energy, and can be enhanced by raising of the surface
temperature through the transfer process to the surface motion.
