Near Edge Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy: Comparison to X-ray Absorption

Inelastic electron scattering provides a convenient, lab-based alternative to bremsstrahlung or synchrotron radiation X-ray spectroscopy for inner-shell excitation studies of gases, solids and surfaces. The current capabilities of inner-shell electron energy loss spectroscopies (ISEELS) are reviewed and compared to X-ray techniques. Issues discussed include: momentum transfer dependence, oscillator strength determination, spatial and energy resolution, orientational sensitivity. Examples are given of the application of EELS to gases, solids and surfaces.