X-Ray-Photoelectron Final-State Screening in Transition-Metal Compounds

Abstract

The cation $3s$ levels in fluorides of $3d$ transition elements have been systematically examined with use of x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. It is shown that $3s$ line shapes are determined by the $3d$ populations (and consequent exchange splittings) associated with different core-hole screening conditions. The screening mechanisms are thus identified as major contributors to the satellite structures observed in core level photoemission. An understanding of these processes is essential for the interpretation of chemical effects in photoelectron spectra.