Excitation of K-Shell Electrons in Be by Soft X Rays and 20-keV Electrons*

Abstract

The soft x-ray absorption spectra of Be and BeO were measured near the K edge using the NBS 180 MeV synchrotron as a background continuum source. The energy-loss spectrum of 20-keV electrons transmitted through thin Be films at zero scattering angle was measured in the corresponding 100–170 eV energy-loss range. The K edges of Be and BeO measured by x-ray absorption were at 112.1±0.2 eV and 118.4±0.2 eV, respectively. The Be K edge in the electron-energy-loss spectrum was at 111.7±0.4 eV. The positions of maxima in the absorption fine structure determined by the two techniques were also in good agreement.