In a total reflection geometry at small incident angles phi (0-35 mrad
), MeV proton and alpha beams were used to analyse Au and Cu layers on
flat quartz substrates by detection of X-rays and backscattered proto
ns. The reflected proton beams were detected as a function of incident
angle phi. An improved model for theoretical X-ray yield calculations
is developed. These calculations showed that a proton beam of 2.5 MeV
will be totally reflected from a Au atomic surface layer at an incide
nt angle smaller than 8 mrad. At these small angles the backscattered
protons and alpha particles show a pattern which indicates atomic laye
r depth resolution.