Atomic theory methods for the polarization in photon and electron interactions with atoms

Abstract

An alternative method to the density matrix formalism for the derivation of general expressions of the interaction of polarized atoms with polarized photons and electrons is presented. The expression for the cross-section describing the polarization states of all particles taking part in the process are obtained in the form of an expansion via irreducible tensors that have the most simplest possible behaviour under changes of directions. The ways of the application of the general expressions suitable for the specific experimental conditions are outlined by deriving asymmetry parameters of the angular distributions of photoelectrons and Auger electrons following photoionization as well as the parameters of the angular correlations between photo- and Auger electrons.