Empirical and Theoretical L-Shell Transition Probabilities 28–98

This paper analyzes how certain electron transitions inside the L shell of atoms vary across elements from atomic number 28 to 98. The authors compiled earlier experimental measurements to build smooth empirical trends using polynomial interpolation. They also computed new theoretical values for selected elements using a relativistic atomic-structure method called Multiconfiguration Dirac–Fock (MCDF). Comparisons with other available data show good agreement, particularly for medium and heavy elements. The results are presented as reference information useful for modeling L-shell vacancy decay and for applications in X-ray spectroscopy and radiation-interaction studies.

What the study examined

This work looked at how specific electron transition probabilities in the L shell of atoms change across a wide range of elements, from atomic number 28 to 98. The transitions considered are known by labels used in atomic physics and are important when an electron vacancy in one subshell is filled by an electron from another subshell.

The authors gathered experimental measurements from their prior studies and organized these into smooth empirical trends. In addition, new theoretical values were produced for selected elements using the Multiconfiguration Dirac–Fock method, a relativistic calculation approach that models atomic structure and electron interactions.

Key findings

• Empirical trends: Experimental data were compiled and fitted with polynomial interpolation to create continuous trends across the element range, providing a clear picture of how the transition probabilities change with atomic number.
• Theoretical results: New calculations from the MCDF method were reported for selected elements, incorporating relativistic effects that can become important for heavier atoms.
• Agreement with other data: When compared with previously available theoretical and experimental values, the results show good agreement, particularly for medium and heavy elements.

Why it matters

The combined empirical and theoretical results offer reliable reference values for modeling how L-shell vacancies decay in atoms. Such reference data support analyses in atomic physics, X-ray spectroscopy, and studies of how radiation interacts with matter.

By providing smoothly interpolated empirical trends alongside new relativistic calculations, this work helps bridge measured data and theoretical models, giving researchers and practitioners clearer numbers to use when interpreting spectra or simulating atomic processes.