Atomic level widths for x‐ray spectrometry

Abstract
A self‐consistent set of level widths for the K–N7 subshells is assembled using literature experimental data from a variety of spectroscopic methods. In cases where Coster–Kronig processes contribute significantly, the widths differ from the predictions of the atomic single‐particle model; in the restricted regions where atomic many‐body predictions are available, the agreement is much better. The assembled widths will be useful to Si(Li) spectroscopists who wish to include natural width in the description of spectrometer lineshape; such inclusion will improve accuracy in both fundamental and analytical work. The present database is also of value in identifying where improvements to the currently incomplete knowledge of natural widths are most critical.