X-ray and neutron scattering

Abstract:

We report neutron scattering measurements of the spectrum of magnetic excitations in the stripe-ordered phase of La2-xSrxNiO4 (x = 0.275 and 1/3). The propagating spin excitations follow a similar dispersion relation for the two compositions, but the line widths are broader for x = 0.275 than for 1/3. (C) 2003 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract:

We have studied magnetic correlations in several compositions of stripe-ordered La2-xSrxNiO4. In this paper we show how polarized-neutron scattering has helped uncover important features of the magnetic ordering and spin dynamics. In particular, polarization analysis has enabled us (1) to characterize a spin reorientation transition, (2) to identify anisotropy gaps in the spin excitation spectrum and (3) to investigate an anomalous dip in the spin-wave intensity suggestive of coupling between collective spin and charge excitations. (C) 2003 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract:

In 1947 Kathleen Lonsdale conducted a series of experiments on X-ray diffraction using a divergent beam external to a crystal sample. Unlike the Kossel technique, where divergent X-rays are excited by the presence of fluorescing atoms within the crystal, the use of an external divergent source made it possible to study non-fluorescing crystals. The resulting photographs not only illustrated the complexity of X-ray diffraction from crystals in a truly beautiful way, but also demonstrated unprecedented experimental precision. This long-forgotten work is repeated here using a synchrotron radiation source and, once again, considerable merit is found in Lonsdale's technique. The results of this experiment suggest that, through the use of modern 'third-generation' synchrotron sources, divergent-beam diffraction could soon enjoy a renaissance for high-precision lattice-parameter determination and the study of crystal perfection.