Symmetry analysis of the magnetic structure of Mn3Sb

Abstract

To estimate the reliability of the previously published results concerning the magnetic structure of Mn3Sb, a symmetry analysis of possible magnetic structures characterized by a wave vector k 12 = 0 has been performed. In this work, we quite briefly describe and apply the previously developed technique for the calculations of the basis functions of the irreducible representations of the space group O h 1 (Pm \(\bar 3\) m) entering into the composition of the magnetic representation with the above wave vector. Results of the calculations of these basis functions for the Mn atoms located in 3c positions are given and discussed in detail. A conclusion is made that the magnetic moments of Mn atoms in this intermetallic compound can be oriented along any crystallographic direction with the formation of collinear or canted magnetic structures. The total magnetic moments of separate Mn atoms in the unit cell of the crystal structure can coincide or differ in magnitude.