SURFACE MAGNETISM OF GADOLINIUM

The surface magnetism of Gd exhibits a variety of unusual phenomena. This is not to say the book has been closed on the bulk properties. Indeed, characterization of the single crystal critical behavior is an ongoing field. In this light, it is not surprising that studies of the surface magnetic properties of Gd have lagged those of the transition metal magnets. The delay has primarily been due to the difficulty in obtaining a sufficiently pure sample. We report on the methods available for creating an atomically clean surface, the newly measured surface structure, the hows and whys of the surface enhanced magnetic order displayed by Gd and finally lay to rest the possibility of antiparallel coupling of the surface layer to the bulk.