Observation of Domains in the Ferrimagnetic Garnets by Transmitted Light

Abstract

It has been found that single crystals of the ferrimagnetic garnets are transparent to visible light. Thin sections (e.g., 0.005 cm thick) transmit sufficient light for microscopic examination. The transmitted light undergoes a nonreciprocal rotation similar to the Faraday effect. By virtue of this rotation many features of the domain structure are readily visible. A magnetic birefringence has also been observed which can be used to differentiate domains whose magnetization lies perpendicular to the line of sight. It is possible to study domain structure at any temperature below the Curie point. The effects of strains set up by the polishing procedure are discussed. Finally, mention is made of possible combined microwave-optical experiments, as well as experiments aimed at understanding the switching process.