Atomic collisions with relativistic heavy ions: Target inner-shell ionization

Abstract

Target $K$-vacancy and $L$-x-ray production cross sections in collisions with relativistic (82---670-MeV/amu) heavy ions ranging from Ne to U are measured and compared with atomic theories of inner-shell ionization based on the plane-wave Born approximation. Because the counting methods used are unique in atomic physics, careful studies of experimental uncertainties are made. Corrections to the measured cross sections due to x-ray pileup and secondary interactions in the solid targets are also discussed.