Relativistic calculation of atomic M-shell ionization by protons

Relativistic plane-wave Born-approximation calculations of cross sections for M-shell ionization of ₆₇Ho, ₇₉Au, and ₉₂U by protons with incident energies from 0.05 to 1 MeV are reported. Dirac-Hartree-Slater wave functions were employed and binding-energy change and Coulomb deflection were taken into account. Associated x-ray production cross sections were also computed. Results are compared with previous theoretical predictions and with experimental data. Definite improvement in the theory has been attained by the use of realistic wave functions and consistent inclusion of the effects of relativity.