Ferromagnetism near surfaces and in thin films.

The ferromagnetic order is modified near the surface of a magnetic crystal. This modification is studied most clearly in magnetic thin films consisting of only a few atomic layers. Some essential features of the theoretical description are reported as a basis for the discussion of experiments. The main experimental problem is the preparation of flat single crystal films; the real structure of the best available films is discussed. Their magnetic properties are compared with theoretical predictions. Furthermore, methods and results are reported for probing the magnetic properties of surfaces, by their interaction with low energy electrons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]