X-ray emission valence band spectra from Zn1−xFexS excited by electrons

Abstract We present measurements of the emission spectra from Fe, Zn and S atoms in Zn 1− x Fe x S compounds ( x =0.24, 0.34 and 0.53) performed by means of an electron microprobe in the wavelength-dispersive mode. Analysis of L α lines confirmed that the ability of the Fe 3d electrons to participate in the partial-covalent bonding is higher than Co 3d and Zn 3d electrons. Changes observed in the shapes and energy positions of the investigated lines were found more pronounced in the case of Fe than Co and Zn. Moreover, changes observed in the distribution of S 3p electrons (K β spectra) give direct evidence of differences between S–Zn and S–Fe bonds.