Spin-orbit coupling, exchange interaction, and hybridization in the photoexcitation of the Ni 3p core level.

Abstract

A spin-polarized photoemission study of the Ni 3p core level reveals the spin polarization of the main line and the satellites. A detailed comparison with calculation confirms earlier assignments that the satellites have ${\mathit{d}}^{9}$ character. However, the measurement also reveals the role of spin-orbit and exchange interactions in determining the spin polarization of the main peak, which is shown to be composed of both ${\mathit{d}}^{9}$ and ${\mathit{d}}^{10}$ character. The study shows that the spin polarization in the leading edge of the main line reflects its ${\mathit{d}}^{9}$ character as a result of the hybridization between the different configurations.