X-Ray Fluorescence Yields

Abstract

The x-ray fluorescence yield for the $K$ shell of atoms has been measured for a number of elements ranging from nickel to tin by an ionization chamber method similar to that developed by A. H. Compton. The results show an increase in the fluorescence yield with atomic number and are compared with those calculated by Massey and Burhop using relativistic wave mechanics and also with those calculated by Burhop from nonrelativistic wave mechanics. The fluorescence yield for the $L_{111}$ shell of lead, thorium and uranium has been determined using suitable exciting radiation. An increase in the yield with atomic number is found.