The MVV Auger spectra of copper and nickel

Abstract

Measurements are reported of the M₂₃VV and M₁VV Auger spectra of copper and nickel and the results compared with other Auger transitions, like LVV and ion neutralization spectroscopy as well as with X-ray M₂₃ band emission data in terms of peak structure, peak width and energy shifts. The conditions under which quasiatomic or band like spectra can be obtained are investigated. The data reveal a strong dependence of Auger lineshape on the involved initial state. A careful analysis of the likely sources of MVV structure is carried out and some effects possibly related to the band structure become apparent. In particular, the appearance of certain peaks in the high energy side of the main line is tentatively interpreted in terms of interatomic de-excitation processes.