Sample interview questions: Can you explain the concept of magneto-optic Kerr effect and its applications in solid-state physics?
Sample answer:
Magneto-Optic Kerr Effect (MOKE)
The magneto-optic Kerr effect (MOKE) is a magneto-optic phenomenon that describes the change in polarization of light upon reflection from a magnetized material. It arises due to the interaction between the incident light and the magnetization of the material.
Principle
When linearly polarized light is incident on a magnetized material, it undergoes two distinct reflections:
- Kerr rotation: The polarization plane of the reflected light rotates by an angle θ proportional to the magnetization of the material.
- Kerr ellipticity: The reflected light becomes elliptically polarized, with the major axis of the ellipse tilted by an angle ε.
These effects are caused by the presence of a non-reciprocal optical path difference between the left and right circularly polarized components of the incident light. The path difference arises from the interaction of the electrons in the material with the applied magnetic field.
Applications in Solid-State Physics
MOKE is a powerful tool for investigating the magnetic properties of solid-state materials, including:
- Domain imaging: MOKE microscopy can be used to visualize magnetic domains and doma… Read full answer
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