Continuum photon emission by some metals under heavy ion bombardment

Abstract

During 10 keV Ar+ and Ne+ bombardment of Mo, Nb, Ta, Ti, V, and Zr, continuum photon emission is observed. This emission is shown to be emitted by sputtered species. Its total intensity between λ = 235 and 520 nm is of the order of 5 × 10-3 photons per projectile, and depends to some extent on the presence of oxygen at the target surface. Transition radiation, many closely spaced spectral lines, radiative electron capture and collision induced decay are rejected as sources for this continuum radiation, while emission by metal molecules remains as a possible source. © 1976.