FluorescentKX-Rays from Ions in Solution and from Gases

The $K\alpha$ lines emitted by cobalt, nickel, copper and bromine contained in chemical compounds were compared with the lines emitted by these elements in pure form. Chemical combination was found to broaden the lines and increase their asymmetry. The magnitude of the effect was greatest for cobalt, progressively smaller for nickel and copper and completely unobservable in the case of bromine. The further effect on the $K{\alpha }_1$ lines of putting these compounds into water solution at various concentrations was studied. It was found that the lines were unchanged by solution regardless of the dilution. Finally, the $K\alpha$ doublets of liquid and gaseous bromine were studied and found to be identical, showing that the state of physical aggregation has no effect on the $K\alpha$ lines of this element.