the EXAFS Equation

The EXAFS (Extended X-ray Absorption Fine Structure) equation describes how X-ray absorption by a material varies with energy, revealing local atomic environments. When X-rays hit an atom, some are absorbed, causing electrons to be ejected. The resulting oscillations in absorption (the EXAFS signal) come from these ejected electrons scattering off neighboring atoms. The equation models these oscillations, accounting for factors like the distances to neighboring atoms, their types, and thermal vibrations. By analyzing this, scientists can determine the arrangement and types of atoms surrounding a specific atom in a material.