Band-like versus quasiatomic Auger valence-band spectra: A physical explanation

A physical explanation is proposed for the influence of the initial-hole location in the band-like versus quasiatomic characteristics of Auger spectra involving quasilocalized levels. Interatomic processes not competing with intra-atomic ones are shown to always sample the band of the solid in view of their much slower transition rates. Interatomic transitions between substrates and adsorbed layers are thought to be connected with d-band metal electrons in different bonds.