Mechanisms of inner-shell vacancy production in slow ion-atom collisions

A survey is given of recent progress in the understanding of the basic mechanisms responsible for inner-shell vacancy production in slow (near-adiabatic) ion-atom collisions. Particular emphasis is placed on the exploration of the quasimolecular mechanisms leading to vacancy production in the L-shell and in higher shells. The experimental methods relevant to the study of inner-shell vacancies are summarized, and problems arising in the data reduction are discussed. The theoretical analysis of inner-shell vacancy production in terms of the molecular-orbital model of atomic collisions is outlined. Results of recent experimental and theoretical studies are compiled and critically discussed. (orig.)