ULTRATHIN FILMS - MAGNETISM ON THE MICROSCOPIC SCALE

The basic concepts associated with two-dimensional ferromagnetism are illustrated from an experimentalist's viewpoint. Ultrathin epitaxial films are the prototype systems for investigating magnetism in reduced dimensions, and spin-polarized scanning electron microscopy is a powerful technique for such experiments. The topics covered include a discussion on the formation of magnetic domains in these films, the microscopic investigation of spin fluctuations, and the key role that anisotropies play in these systems.