Evolution of x-ray resonance Raman scattering into x-ray fluorescence from the excitation of xenon near the L3 edge

Rydberg-resolved resonant inelastic soft x-ray scattering: dynamics at core ionization thresholds

Resonant inelastic x-ray scattering spectra excited in the immediate vicinity of the core-level ionization thresholds of N2 have been recorded. Final states of well-resolved symmetry-selected Rydberg series converging to valence-level ionization thresholds with vibrational excitations are observed. The results are well described by a quasi-two-step model which assumes that the excited electron is unaffected by the radiative decay. This threshold dynamics simplifies the interpretation of resonant inelastic x-ray scattering spectra considerably and facilitates characterization of low-energy excited final states in molecular systems.

Performances of a bent-crystal spectrometer adapted to resonant x-ray emission measurements on gas-phase samples

We describe a bent-crystal spectrometer adapted to measure x-ray emission resulting from core-level excitation of gas-phase molecules in the 0.8-8 keV energy range. The spectrometer is based on the Johann principle, and uses a microfocused photon beam to provide high-resolution (resolving power of approximately 7500). A gas cell was designed to hold a high-pressure (300 mbar) sample of gas while maintaining a high vacuum (10(-9) mbar) in the chamber. The cell was designed to optimize the counting rate (2000 cts/s at the maximum of the Cl Kalpha emission line), while minimizing self-absorption. Example of the Kalpha emission lines of CH(3)Cl molecules is presented to illustrate the capabilities of this new instrument.

Evolution from threshold of a hollow Atom's X-Ray emission spectrum: the Cu k(h)alpha(1,2) hypersatellites

The first pure high-resolution photoexcited K(h)alpha(1,2) hypersatellite spectrum from a hollow Cu atom is measured. Its K(h)alpha(2)- Kalpha(1) shift and the K(h)alpha(1,2) lines' splitting, widths, and intensity ratio are accurately determined. Such spectra are uniquely suited to study relativistic correlation effects, transition from LS to intermediate coupling, and the Breit-Wigner interaction. The threshold energy and the spectrum's evolution with excitation energy are also measured. The roles of relativity and Breit interaction are explored by comparison with ab initio Dirac-Fock calculations.