Structure and chemical reactivity of transition metal surfaces as probed by synchrotron radiation core level photoelectron spectroscopy

Since the 1970s core level spectroscopy has played a key role in elucidating the energetics, structure and kinetics of solid surfaces. This paper reviews recent experimental results which illustrate the breakthroughs achieved by using this technique with x-rays produced by third generation synchrotron radiation light sources. Examples regarding the interaction of atomic adsorbates, the role of surface defects, the thermal stability of solid surfaces and simple surface chemical reactions outline the potential of high energy resolution core level photoelectron spectroscopy as a tool for determining electronic, geometrical and chemical properties of clean and adsorbate covered Rh and Pt solid surfaces.