Abstract
The relativistic version of the binary-encounter Bethe (BEB) model is used to calculate cross sections for K-shell ionization of atoms by electron impact. The BEB model requires only two atomic constants, the binding energy and kinetic energy of the K electrons. These constants are listed for carbon to antimony. Comparisons with available experimental data on N, O, Na, Al, Cl, Ca, Cu, Se and Sb show good agreement. The K-shell ionization cross sections for C, Mg, P, S, Cr, As and Cd are tabulated.