Fe $L_{\mathrm{III}}$ and $L_{\mathrm{II}}$ electron-energy-loss spectra of amorphous alloys ${\mathrm{Fe}}_{\mathrm{x}}$${\mathrm{Ge}}_{1\mathrm{-}\mathrm{x}}$ (0.2≤x≤0.6) have shown that there is no charge transfer between germanium and the iron d band, and a charge-transfer mechanism cannot be responsible for the decrease of the iron magnetic moment on alloying with germanium. The results do show substantial hybridization manifested as an intraband or intra-atomic redistribution of electrons within the d band.

• Received 19 April 1985

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.32.3107