Which way does the magnetism of the cubic iron struture point?

In summary, there is a competition between magneto-crystalline anisotropy and the Zeeman energy in external fields for alignment of magnetic moments in iron. In small external fields, the domains tend to align with their easy axis due to the high symmetry of cubic structures. The microscopic magnetic structure can be studied through various techniques such as neutron scattering and x-ray diffraction. The magnetization process can be complex, leading to the Barkhausen effect.
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Stickybees
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If you apply a field to iron the various domains move around, are the individual atoms of the FCC or BCC iron aligning with the field or does the unit cube tend to have an overall orientation which moves? If so then how would you know how the unit cubes are aligned relative to their poles?

Thanks if anyone has any insight :)
 
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There is a competition between magneto-crystalline anisotropy that favors alignment of the magnetic moments along a minimum energy crystal axis, and the Zeeman energy in the external field (if there is one).

In small external fields, the domains tend to have magnetic moments along their easy axis. Because of the high symmetry of cubic there are several symmetry-equivalent directions that all have the same intrinsic energy.

The microscopic magnetic structure can be studied by neutron scattering or x-ray diffraction. Techniques such as Moessbauer, muon spin rotation, and NMR can also provide addtional insight.

The magnetization process can be quite complicated, with domains growing and shrinking and sometimes "jumping" to a new direction because of pinning effects. This gives rise to the Barkhausen effect.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barkhausen_effect
 
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1. What is the cubic iron structure?

The cubic iron structure refers to the arrangement of iron atoms in a cube shape, with iron atoms at each corner and in the center of each face. This structure is commonly found in iron alloys and is known for its high strength and ductility.

2. What is the direction of magnetism in the cubic iron structure?

The direction of magnetism in the cubic iron structure depends on the external magnetic field applied to it. In the absence of an external field, the magnetic moments of the iron atoms are randomly oriented and cancel each other out, resulting in no overall magnetism. However, when an external field is applied, the magnetic moments align in the direction of the field, resulting in magnetism.

3. Does the magnetism of the cubic iron structure point in a specific direction?

No, the magnetism of the cubic iron structure does not point in a specific direction in the absence of an external magnetic field. It is only when an external field is applied that the magnetic moments align in a specific direction, resulting in magnetism.

4. How does the direction of magnetism in the cubic iron structure affect its properties?

The direction of magnetism in the cubic iron structure can affect its properties, such as its magnetic strength and susceptibility to external fields. For example, a material with a strong magnetization in a specific direction may be more useful in applications that require magnetic properties, such as in electronic devices or magnetic storage media.

5. Can the direction of magnetism in the cubic iron structure be changed?

Yes, the direction of magnetism in the cubic iron structure can be changed by applying an external magnetic field in a different direction. This can be done by physically rotating the material or by changing the orientation of the external field. Additionally, the direction of magnetism can also be altered by changing the temperature or composition of the material.

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