Mossbauer spectra in paramagnetic relaxing systems

Abstract

In this review the authors treat the study of electronic relaxation phenomena using Mossbauer spectroscopy. First, examples are discussed where it is possible to reproduce the spectral lineshape by use of a stochastic theory. The general case is then considered, including a full discussion on the application of ab initio theories. There then follows a detailed analysis of the microscopic mechanisms responsible for relaxation in insulators (e.g. spin-phonon and spin-spin interactions) and metals. Finally, the fast relation limit is considered.