Magnetic character of the empty density of states in uranium compounds from X-ray magnetic circurlar dichroism

TL;DR

This paper analyzes XMCD measurements at uranium M_4,5 edges, revealing a double-lobe structure in the magnetic density of states that varies among different uranium compounds.

Contribution

It provides new insights into the empty 5f magnetic density of states in uranium compounds through detailed XMCD spectral analysis.

Findings

Double-lobe structure observed in 6 out of 12 compounds

Shape of XMCD signal relates to j=7/2 band splitting

Differences in electronic structure among compounds identified

Abstract

We present a discussion of published x-ray magnetic circular dichroism (XMCD) measurements performed at the uranium M_4,5 edges of metallic uranium compounds, focusing on the shape of the dichroic signal at the M_5 edge. A well resolved double lobe structure, comprised of a positive and a negative peak, is sometimes observed. Out of the twelve metallic uranium compounds so far investigated by XMCD, six exhibit an intense double-lobe structure at the M_5 edge. This line shape gives information on the empty 5f magnetic density of states with angular quantum number j=7/2. Conclusions about the difference between these two families of compounds are given regarding the splitting of the j=7/2 band and the occupation among the different m_7/2 sublevels.