V2O3 exhibits as a function of temperature a metal-insulator transitio
n (MIT) associated with a structural and a magnetic transition, which
we have studied with x-ray-absorption measurements of V2O3 at the V 2p
and O Is edge as well as photoemission measurements above and below t
he MTT. The O Is edge shifts similar to 0.3 eV to lower energy in the
metallic phase and the linear dichroism is enhanced in the insulating
state, an enhancement discussed in a molecular-orbital picture. These
effects are independent of whether the insulating state is achieved by
cooling, Cr doping, or stress. We conclude the monoclinic distortion
plays only a minor role in the MIT, the major factor is the change in
the c/a ratio. The V 2p edge is much narrower in the insulating phase,
perhaps due to changes in electron phonon coupling.