X-ray diffraction by CeB6

Recent x-ray diffraction experiments on CeB6 held at temperatures below TQ∼3.2 K are shown to be fully consistent with properties expected of phase II that arises in the interval of temperature between TQ and TN∼2.4 K. Thomson scattering at reflections (h/2, k/2, l/2) with odd-integer Miller indices is successfully interpreted on the basis of a distorted CsCl-type structure which supports an antiferro-configuration of Γ5-type Ce quadrupole moments. Applied to resonant scattering at Ce L2 and L3 absorption edges the model also agrees with available data. Intensities calculated as a function of the azimuthal angle show a wealth of strong features which are attributed to the crystal physics of Ce ions in the low-symmetry structure. (author)