Magnetic domain formation in itinerant metamagnets

Abstract

We examine the effects of long-range dipolar forces on metamagnetic transitions and generalize the theory of Condon domains to the case of an itinerant electron system undergoing a first-order metamagnetic transition. We demonstrate that within a finite range of the applied field, dipolar interactions induce a spatial modulation of the magnetization in the form of stripes or bubbles. Our findings are consistent with recent observations in the bilayer ruthenate Sr${}_3$Ru${}_2$O${}_7$.

4 pages, 3 figures, minor changes, references added