Magnetic-Form Factor Measurements by Polarised Neutron Scattering: Application to Heavy Fermion Superconductors

Abstract

The experimental technique of spin polarised neutron scattering as used in magnetic form factor measurements is presented. An introduction to the interpretation and the calculation of magnetic form factors and magnetization densities is given. The experimental technique of neutron scattering theory as applied to elastic spin polarised scattering experiments is briefly introduced. The calculation of the magnetic form factor and the magnetization densities are considered for simple model systems such as a collection of localised magnetic moments or an itinerant electron system. The discussion is illustrated by an experimental investigation of the magnetic form factor in the heavy fermion superconductors UBe13 and UPt3. Magnetization density maps and magnetic form factors are presented, and their implications for other physical quantities are briefly discussed.