${\rm LiHo_xY_{1-x}F_4}$ as a random field Ising ferromagnet

Abstract

As a result of the interplay between the intrinsic off-diagonal terms of the dipolar interaction and an applied {\it transverse} field $H_t$, the diluted ${\rm LiHo_xY_{1-x}F_4}$ system at x$> 0.5$ is equivalent to a ferromagnet in a longitudinal random field (RF). At low $H_t$ the quantum fluctuations between the Ising like doublet states are negligible, while the effective induced RF is appreciable. This results in a practically exact equivalence to the classical RF Ising model. By tuning $H_t$, the applied longitudinal field, and the dilution, the Ising model can be realized in the presence of an effective RF, transverse field, and constant longitudinal field, all independently controlled. The experimental consequences for $D=1,2,3$ dimensions are discussed.