White lines and self absorption of lines in the X-ray absorption spectra of transition elements in the metallic state

'White lines' on the high energy side of the X-ray absorption discontinuity of transition elements in the metallic state have been studied in connection with self absorption of lines which involve transition electrons from incompletely filled valence levels. In conclusion, it is proposed that the region between the white line and the self absorption will correspond to the transition of the inner electron to the unoccupied part of the valence level.