Abstract
Examples are presented of how symmetry breaking enters into consideration of the physical properties of magnetic surfaces and ultrathin films. The role of magnetic anisotropy is discussed with a view to understanding: (i) the existence of two-dimensional magnetic long-ranged order at finite temperature; (ii) magnetization scaling behavior at the Curie transition; (iii) the two-dimensional spin reorientation transition; and (iv) step-induced magnetic behavior. Experimental examples cited include ultrathin magnetic Fe and Co overlayer and wedge structures grown onto single crystal substrates that are either flat or curved to produce vicinal surfaces with a continuous gradient in the step density. Also included is an example of an atomically flat manganite intergrowth that appears as a stacking fault in a bulk single crystal of a naturally layered structure.
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