Two-dimensionally modulated magnetic structure of neodymium, commensurate-commensurate transitions in CeSb, and the devil's staircase

Journal Article · Thu Mar 01 04:00:00 EST 1979 · J. Appl. Phys.; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1063/1.327129· OSTI ID:6298892

Bak, P

The magnetic structure of the rare-earth metal neodymium has remained a mystery for more than a decade. Recently, a magnetic structure which fits the experimental results has been reported (1). Here it will be shown how the model was derived by combining neutron diffraction data with the results of Landau symmetry arguments and renormalization group theory. The spins form a fascinating two-dimensional pattern with hexagonal symmetry, the ''triple q'' structure. The magnetic order is accompanied by a lattice distortion with a similar symmetry. Also, the results of a numerical study of simple model of a one-dimensionally modulated system are reported (2). The phase diagram includes multiple phase transitions between commensurate phases similar to those observed in CeSb. This model, and CeSb, are possible candidates for ''the devil's staircase'' behavior where the periodicity jumps between an infinity of commensurate values.

• Research Organization: NORDITA, Blegdamsvej 17, DK 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
• OSTI ID: 6298892
• Journal Information: J. Appl. Phys.; (United States), Journal Name: J. Appl. Phys.; (United States) Vol. 50:B3; ISSN JAPIA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE
360102* -- Metals & Alloys-- Structure & Phase Studies
ALLOYS
ANTIMONY ALLOYS
CERIUM ALLOYS
ELEMENTS
GROUP THEORY
MAGNETIC PROPERTIES
MATHEMATICS
METALS
NEODYMIUM
ORIENTATION
PHASE TRANSFORMATIONS
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
PNICTIDES
RARE EARTH ALLOYS
RARE EARTHS
RENORMALIZATION
SPIN ORIENTATION
SYMMETRY