Direct experimental determination of atom–molecule–solid binding energy shifts for Sb and Bi

Abstract

Binding energy shifts Bi–Bi2–Bi (solid) and Sb–Sb2–Sb4–Sb (solid) have been measured for the first time directly for Bi4f and Sb4d core levels by applying synchrotron radiation excited photoelectron spectroscopy. Atomic, molecular and solid state spectra are obtained by varying the temperature of evaporated metal vapours by means of a special multichamber oven and letting the vapour condensate on a cool solid tip. Vapour and solid state spectra are created simultaneously in similar experimental conditions, making direct and accurate shift determinations possible. The effects of the multiplet fine structure of the open shell atoms are pointed out.