X-ray dichroism and scattering studies of magnetic systems

Recent experimental and theoretical work at ESRF, on circular magnetic X-ray dichroism and surface resonant X-ray scattering for the study of transition metal systems is briefly reviewed. The applicability and accuracy of dichroism sum rules is critically assessed by discussing the extent to which real systems satisfy the necessary assumptions. Special emphasis is given to results for the L-2,L-3 edges of the 3d ferromagnetic metals. The recent demonstration of the feasibility and potential of X-ray scattering for the investigation of surface magnetic order is also discussed.