Layer-resolved vector magnetization processes of ferrimagnetic Fe₁/Au/Fe₂/Au(001) multilayer by resonant X-ray magnetic scattering at the Fe K absorption edge

Layer-resolved vector magnetization processes were investigated for Fe layers in a ferrimagnetic Fe₁/Au/Fe₂/Au(001) multilayer. The magnetic hysteresis curves of resonant X-ray magnetic scattering intensities were measured at the Bragg peak angles of the multilayer structure using circularly polarized synchrotron X-rays near the Fe K absorption edge. The magnetic field is applied along the Fe[100] and Fe[110] directions. The layer-resolved magnetization curves of both parallel and orthogonal components were derived from the experimental data and compared with those calculated on the basis of the model in which Zeeman interaction, interlayer exchange coupling and four-fold magnetic anisotropy in the Fe(001) plane were considered. It is found that the four-fold magnetic anisotropy with the magnetic easy direction along the Fe[100] direction plays an important role in the vector magnetization processes of the ferrimagnetic Fe/Au(001) multilayer. (author)