In the framework of this habilitation thesis a number of 3d transition metal and 4f rare
earth compounds ranging from highly insulating ternary oxides of type REScO3 via
ferrite thin lm to single molecule magnets have been studied by means of complementary
x-ray spectroscopic approaches. In combination with structural investigations,
magnetic measurements and suitable theoretical calculations a detailed picture of the
electronic and magnetic structure of the materials in question could be develope
