Manipulating the Multipole Moments in CeB₆ by Magnetic Fields

Abstract

Results of non-resonant X-ray Bragg diffraction measurements in the phase II of CeB₆ under an applied magnetic field, H, are reported. The intensity of the superlattice reflection (n⁄2,n⁄2,n⁄2) increases dramatically with H applied along the [111] axis, where n is odd. On the other hand, the superlattice intensity decreases with H along the [\\bar211] axis normal to the scattering vector. These behaviors of the superlattice intensity in H are explained qualitatively by the combined effects of the magnetic moments tending to align parallel to H and the spin orbit coupling which tends to align the extended wave function of the f electron normal to H. Using this relation, one can manipulate the multipole moments in rare-earth compounds by magnetic fields.