Effects of multiple ionization on the spectra of L x rays excited in heavy-ion collisions

Spectra of L x rays emitted from thick solid targets containing elements with atomic numbers ranging from 49 (In) to 67 (Ho) were measured in high resolution using a curved crystal spectrometer. The projectiles included heavy ions (Ne, Ar, Kr, and Xe) ranging in energy from 6 to 15 MeV∕amu. A scaling rule was established for the apparent average fraction of M vacancies at the time of L x-ray emission and the result was compared to one obtained previously for the apparent average fraction of L vacancies at the time of K x-ray emission. The apparent degree of L-shell ionization at the time of L x-ray emission was examined as a function of target atomic number (for 6 MeV∕amu Kr projectiles), projectile atomic number (for an ₅₁Sb target), and projectile energy.