Self-absorption studies of the soft X-ray emission and absorption edges of K, Mg, Al and Be

A detailed study is presented on self-absorption of the K-M 23 , Mg-L 23 , and Al-L 23 edges as well as new data on the anomalous Be-K edge which has already been presented by the author. The self-absorption mechanism is examined in some detail and it is concluded that under favourable circumstances, the absorption spectrum at the edge can be evaluated and its separation from the emission edge measured with a fair degree of accuracy. Broadening and other parameters have been determined for both emission and absorption and are discussed with reference to similar determinations by other workers.