Analysis of X-ray spectral data with genetic algorithms

An algorithmic method for the analysis of X-ray line spectra using genetic algorithms is presented. This technique permits the extraction of diagnostic information on the emitting medium from the spectral data. As an example of the method, plasma electron number density and temperature are extracted from the analysis of X-ray spectral data recorded in an Ar-doped inertial-confinement-fusion core. For the study of a sequence of gradually changing spectra, a combination of genetic algorithms and case-based reasoning that learns from experience is used to accelerate the analysis. The technique is general and can be applied to other plasma spectroscopy studies including analysis of spatially and temporally resolved line absorption or emission data. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.