Widths and asymmetries of the K α1 and K α2 x-ray lines and the L2 and L3 fluorescence yields of the transition elements

Abstract

The $K {\alpha }_1$ and $K {\alpha }_2$ x-ray lines of the transition elements $23\le Z\le 32$ were measured using an improved version of a single-crystal high-angle goniometer in conjunction with a NaI scintillation detector. The x-ray spectrum of these elements was produced by bombarding them with an electron beam of constant energy and flux. A computer program was devised and used to unfold the physical widths and the asymmetries of these lines. Previous experimental results on both linewidths and asymmetries are included for comparison. The interpretation of the asymmetries as the result of a simple exchange interaction is only partially satisfactory. Values of $L_2$ and $L_3$ fluorescence yields were extracted from the measured linewidths and compared with theory.