Resonant X-ray reflectivity measurements of a magnetic multilayer [Gd/Fe](10)

Abstract

Resonant X-ray reflectivity intensities were collected at different X-ray energies near absorption edges in order to get element-specific density profiles for a (Gd/Fe)(10) multilayer. By fitting the measured resonant X-ray reflectivity curves simultaneously, atomic density profiles of Gd and Fe were determined. X-ray reflectivity intensities were also measured for elliptically polarized X-rays at Gd L-2, and L-3, edges with magnetic fields parallel and antiparallel to the helicity of the X-rays. Asymmetry ratios between the reflectivity intensities with opposite magnetic field directions were calculated from the obtained density profiles and compared with data. (C) 1998 Published by Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.