Giant Spin Fluctuations in Y_0.97Sc_0.03Mn₂

Abstract

Paramagnetic scattering using polarized neutrons has been measured on Y 0.97 Sc 0.03 Mn 2 which is a Pauli paramagnet with remarkable spin fluctuation effects. The wave vector dependence of scattering indicates a strong antiferromagnetic correlation. The energy analysis of the scattering has revealed that a substantial part of the scattering is caused by zero point fluctuations. The amplitude of thermally excited local spin fluctuations has been estimated as a function of temperature.