Sublattice Switching in Antiferromagnets

Abstract

An experiment is described which enables an antiferromagnetic sublattice assignment to be monitored in the presence of a small applied magnetic field. Using this technique it becomes possible to observe sublattice switching events, should they occur. It is concluded, despite the negative character of the results, that a particular magnetic sublattice assignment in Cu${\mathrm{Cl}}_2$·2${\mathrm{H}}_2$O can be considered a stable form at 1.4°K.