A novel method for measuring the Fermi velocity of elemental targets

Abstract

The right kind of theoretical treatment of direct Coulomb ionization of inner-shell of target atoms including multiple ionization of their outer-shells by using accurate x-ray fluorescence yield data and electron capture by projectile ions from inner-shell electrons of target atoms enables us to fully understand the complex physics issues with the heavy-ion-induced inner-shell ionization phenomenon. Such great success has only been achieved recently [Phys. Rev. A 111 (2025) 042827]. Aftermath, further investigations exhibit such a picture only if the Fermi velocity of the elemental target is accurate, as it takes a significant role in correct evaluation of charge-state distribution of the projectile ions inside the target, which contributes an invaluable share in calculating the electron capture-induced ionization cross section correctly. In this work, we devise a powerful method that enables us to measure the correct and accurate Fermi velocity for almost every elemental metal in the periodic table. As per our present knowledge, this in turn not only improves our understanding of the said complex physics issues one step ahead but also helps move toward further miniaturization of integrated circuits and use the heavy-ion-induced X-ray emission in impurity analysis more reliable and accurate.