Cascade effects on the ArLMMAuger spectrum

Generally, at excitation energies well above inner-shell ionization thresholds, Auger spectra are independent of the method of excitation. A notable exception to this has been found for the Ar ${\mathit{L}}_{2,3}$MM Auger spectra where different results are obtained via electron-impact ionization at 2 and 4.5 keV and photoionization below the K edge at 3.17 and 2.2 keV. The differences are explained by the variation of the contribution of ${\mathit{L}}_1$ to ${\mathit{L}}_{2,3}$ vacancy transfers with the mode of excitation. Calculations using a simple vacancy transfer model explain the observed spectra.