Spin-polarised Auger-electron spectroscopy of the d atomic shell. Model calculation for noble-gas atoms

The angular distribution and spin polarisation of Auger electrons of free atoms are discussed. In the (LS) J-coupling approximation the anisotropy coefficient and polarisation are expressed in terms of Auger-decay matrix elements in the particular case of the d 3/2 and d 5/2 subshell vacancies. For some Auger transitions in Ar, Kr and Xe atoms the anisotropy coefficient and polarisation have been calculated. The Herman-Skillman atomic model was used to calculate the Auger-decay amplitudes. In all cases considered the polarisation is small (less than 20%). However, the anisotropy is large and its measurement may be useful for studying the Auger process.