Low-temperature electronic and magnetic transitions in the antiferromagnetic semiconductor Cr0.5Mn0.5S

Abstract

Experimental-theoretical studies were carried out of the electrical and magnetic properties of the antiferromagnetic semiconductor Cr0.5Mn0.5S in the temperature range 4.2–300 K. A magnetic antiferromagnetic-ferrimagnetic phase transition was observed along with a semimetalsemiconductor electronic transition. Monte Carlo calculations indicate that the changes in the type of magnetic ordering and conductivity are due to the cooperative Jahn-Teller effect caused by the Cr2+ ions.