X-ray absorption and emission spectra

Inner electrons are usually excited by X-rays. Atoms give characteristic X-ray absorption and emission spectra, due to a variety of ionization and possible inter-shell transitions. Two relevant refined X-ray absorption techniques, that use synchrotron radiation, are the so-called Absorption Edge Fine Structure (AEFS) and Extended X-ray Absorption Fine Structure (EXAFS). These techniques are very useful in the investigation of local structures in solids. On the other hand, X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) is an important analytical technique. 

The experimental work on X-ray absorption and emission spectra of the lanthanides and its compounds, performed until 1975, has been summarized e.g. in Handbuch der Anorganischen Chemie (Gmelin 1976). In this chapter we focus on the experimental work, published after 1975. 

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