Interaction Between the d Shells in the Transition Metals*

Abstract:

It is assumed (1) that the interaction between the incomplete d shells of the transition elements is insuf- 6cient to disrupt the coupling between the d electrons in the same shells, and (2) that the exchange interaction between adjacent d shells always has the same sign irrespective of distance of separation. The direct interaction between adjacent d shells then invariably leads to a tendency for an antiferromagnetic alignment of d spins. The body-centered cubic structure of the transition metals V, Cr, Cb, Mo, Ta, and %' is thereby interpreted, as well as more complex lattices of certain alloys. It is demonstrated that the spin coupling between the incomplete d shells and the conduction electrons leads to a tendency for a ferromagnetic alignment of d spins. The occurrence of ferromagnetism is thereby interpreted in a much more straightforward manner than through the ad hoc assumption of a reversal in sign of the exchange integral. The occurrence of antiferromagnetism and of ferromagnetism in various systems is readily understood, and certain simple rules are deduced for deciding which type of magnetism will occur in particular alloys.