Loss structure in the electron-energy-loss excitation continuum of a semimetal

We have observed a new type of feature in electron-energy-loss spectra, which is not related to a particular discrete loss channel, although it is a peak which exhibits dispersion. Calculations show that this feature is due to the kinematical nature of the dipole scattering probability function and the unusual form of the surface response function generated by the semimetallic band structure of graphite. The peculiarly intense continuum of electron-hole pair excitations allows the loss structure to be observed.