The Fluorescence Yields of the L Levels of Bismuth

This paper is a supplement to the discussion by Kinsey of the fluorescence yields of the L sub-shells in the heavy elements; it suggests the use of experimental measurements other than those which he discussed for the calculation of these quantities. New observations are reported and collated with existing information. The fluorescence, Auger and Coster-Kronig yields of Bi are re-calculated. Suggestions are made about further experimental work. The numerical results are, for the fluorescence yields of Bi, ω 1 = 0.12 ± 0.01, ω 2 = 0.32±0.04, ω 3 = 0.40 ± 0.05, for the Auger yields a 1 = 0.11 ± 0.03, a 2 = 0.62 ± 0.14, a 3 = 0.60 ± 0.05, and for the Coster-Kronig yield f 12 = 0.19 ± 0.05, f 13 = 0.58 ± 0.05, f 23 = 0.06 ± 0.14. A discussion is added on some aspects of the radioactive disintegration of RaD.