Two-component analysis of the 4f multiplet of samarium hexaboride

We present a detailed study on the temperature-dependence of the Sm 4f states in mixed-valent samarium hexaboride (SmB6) which, as a consequence of the hybridization with the conduction band states, largely determine the physical properties of the system. By comparing soft X-ray photoemission spectra of SmB6 with those of Sm0.35La0.65B6, we discuss the apparent differences and similarities of the two systems. Based on our analyses we show that the 4f spectra of SmB6 can be separated into two independent spectral contributions with the 4f peak maxima at different binding energies, representing two different electronic 4f configurations existing in the system.