Practical Electron Microscopy and Database

An Online Book, Second Edition by Dr. Yougui Liao (2006)

Practical Electron Microscopy and Database - An Online Book

Chapter/Index: Introduction | A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z | Appendix

Initial and Final Levels for Characteristic X-Ray Lines

There are many possible X-ray lines for most elements, resulting from transitions between the energy levels (states) of an atom. As shown in Figure 4478a, Ka X-ray is produced due to removal of K shell electron, with L shell electron taking its place. Kb occurs in the case where K shell electron is replaced by electron from the M shell; La X-ray is produced due to removal of L shell electron, replaced by M shell electron; Ma X-ray is produced due to removal of M shell electron, replaced by N shell electron. Figure 4478b shows the schematic illustration demonstrating the common energy levels leading to X-ray emission lines.

Initial and Final Levels for Characteristic X-Ray Lines

Figure 4478a. Initial and Final Levels for Characteristic X-Ray Lines. 

Schematic illustration demonstrating the common energy levels leading to X-ray emission lines

Figure 4478b. Schematic illustration demonstrating the common energy levels leading to X-ray emission lines.