Auger-mediated sticking of positrons to surfaces: evidence for a single-step transition from a scattering state to a surface image potential bound state.

We present the observation of an efficient mechanism for positron sticking to surfaces termed here Auger-mediated sticking. In this process the energy associated with the positrons transition from an unbound scattering state to a bound image potential state is coupled to a valence electron which can then have sufficient energy to leave the surface. Compelling evidence for this mechanism is found in a narrow secondary electron peak observed at incident positron kinetic energies well below the electron work function.

Energy- and momentum-resolved exchange and spin-orbit interaction in cobalt film by spin-polarized two-electron spectroscopy.

Spontaneous ordering of electronic spins in ferromagnetic materials is one of the best known and most studied examples of quantum correlations. Exchange correlations are responsible for long range spin order and the spin-orbit interaction (SOI) can create preferred crystalline directions for the spins, i.e., magnetic anisotropy. Presented experimental data illustrate how novel spin-polarized two-electron spectroscopy in-reflection mode allows observation of the localization of spin-dependent interactions in energy-momentum space. Comparison of spin-orbit asymmetries in spectra of Co film and clean W(110) may indicate the presence of interface specific proximity effects providing important clues to the formation of preferred orientations for the magnetic moment of the Co film. These results may help to understand the microscopic origin of interface magnetic anisotropy.