The interpretation of XPS spectra: Insights into materials properties

We review basic and advanced concepts needed for the correct analysis of XPS features. We place these concepts on rigorous foundations and explore their physical and chemical meanings without stressing the derivation of the mathematical formulations, which can be found in the cited literature. The significance and value of combining theory and experiment is demonstrated by discussions of the physical and chemical origins of the main and satellite XPS features for a variety of molecular and condensed phase materials.