Near-edge structure in electron-energy-loss spectra of MgO

Abstract

Electron-energy-loss spectra of all core-level absorption edges of MgO microcrystals were recorded in the transmission mode using 60-keV electrons. The low-noise signal attained at a resolution of 0.5 eV reveals details of fine structure in the near-edge region. The spectra obtained were analyzed by the application of multiple-scattering theory to the cluster model. For comparison, calculations of the projected density of states derived from Korringa-Kohn-Rostoker band structure are presented. An overall agreement between measurement and theory is achieved. Remaining deviations in details are discussed.