Quick Overview #
For more specific application of backgrounds, rather than using the Avantage smart background function, Shirley and Linear backgrounds may be applied directly from the same window. For more information on background types, see our backgrounds learning page.
Linear and Simple Backgrounds #
Linear Background #
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How it works: A straight line is drawn between two endpoints surrounding the peak.
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When to use:
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Broad, featureless backgrounds
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Quantification when signal-to-background ratio is high
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Pros: Fast, simple
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Cons: Not accurate for asymmetric or structured backgrounds
Simple Background #
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How it works: A flat (constant) background based on average values at defined start and end points.
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When to use:
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When only a basic baseline correction is needed
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Very clean, low-background spectra
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Pros: Easy to apply
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Cons: Often too simplistic for real-world REELS/XPS
Shirley Backgrounds #
Shirley Background #
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How it works: Assumes background intensity is proportional to the total number of electrons lost to inelastic scattering after the peak.
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When to use:
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XPS core-level peaks, especially when tailing occurs after the main peak.
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Pros: Good for symmetric, step-like peaks
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Cons: May fail for overlapping peaks or thick films
