Multiplet lines in seeded stimulated Mn 𝐾𝛼 1 x-ray emission
We report the successful resolution of the multiplet structure of 𝐾𝛼 1 x-ray emission in manganese (Mn) complexes through seeded stimulated x-ray emission spectroscopy (seeded S-XES). Using a femtosecond pump pulse above the Mn 𝐾 edge to generate simultaneous 1𝑠 core holes, and a second-color tunable seed pulse to initiate the stimulated emission process, we were able to enhance individual lines within the 𝐾𝛼 1 emission. This approach allows to resolve the fine multiplet features that are obscured by lifetime broadening in conventional (spontaneous) Mn 𝐾𝛼 XES. The work builds on our previous observation that S-XES from Mn(II) and Mn(VII) complexes pumped at high intensities can exhibit stimulated emission without sacrificing the chemical sensitivity to oxidation states. Furthermore, this technique opens the door to controlled high-resolution electronic structure spectroscopy in transition-metal complexes beyond the core-hole lifetime, with potential applications in catalysis, inorganic chemistry, and materials science.