Relativistic 2s(1/2) (L-1) atomic subshell decay rates and fluorescence yields for Yb and Hg

De-excitation characteristics of 2s(1/2) atomic hole states are poorly know n. Measurements are hampered by the fact that the K-L-l radiative decay is dipole-forbidden in the non-relativistic limit, precluding standard coincid ence experiments. Calculations call for state-of-the-art approaches. We rep ort results of radiative and radiationless transition rates to L-l vacancy states carried out by two independent methods, i.e., a Dirac-Fock approxima tion and a second-order relativistic many-body approach. Calculations were performed for the elements Yb and Hg. Comparisons are made with measurement s and with other theoretical results. Disagreement between experimental flu orescence yields and between experiment and theory persist even with the pr esent, more advanced, methods.