X-ray excited Auger and photoelectron spectra of partially oxidized magnesium surfaces: The observation of abnormal chemical shifts

A comparison of the spectra of metals and their oxides reveals large differences between the chemical shifts in Auger and photoelectron lines. The data for magnesium are discussed in detail. An explanation is proposed which is based upon the difference in polarization energy between the double-hole state produced by the Auger electron emission and the single-hole state which results from the photoelectron emission.