An experimentalist's view of the galvanomagnetic and thermomagnetic properties of potassium

This paper provides a brief survey of the experimental and theoretical situation regarding the galvano- and thermomagnetic properties of potassium viewed within the context of the behaviour of other metals. Most of the data are consistent with various sample imperfections as being the major source of the anomalies that are found. However, the precise nature of the imperfections and the mechanism by which the imperfections produce the anomalies are not yet known. It is argued that the recently discovered detailed structure in the high field induced torque of K should be subjected to intensive experimental investigation before drawing any conclusions with regards to the possible presence of a charge density wave; the other magnetotransport properties offer little evidence either for or against such a possibility.