| In this dissertation, novel scientific results are discussed in the fields of spectroscopy, atomic and molecular physics, chemical physics, physical chemistry and condensed matter physics. These results have their use of inelastic x-ray spectroscopy in common. This spectroscopy is introduced, and results on systems ranging from nitrogen to uranium are discussed. The examples illustrate certain advantages of inelastic x-ray spectroscopy when compared to conventional, resonant x-ray absorption spectroscopy and when compared to electron scattering. In particular, the advantage of using a high energy x-ray probe to stimulate low energy excitations is a common theme, as is the additional experimental parameter: momentum transfer. |
