The mixed-metal compounds [P(Ph)(4)][(MCr)-Cr-II(C2O4)(3)] (Ph = Phenyl; M
= Mn, Fe) have been studied by calorimetric and magnetic AC and DC techniqu
es. The Mn-derivative presents low dimensional magnetic character and shows
evidence of the onset of a 3D-magnetic ordering. However, experimental res
ults in the Fe-derivative point to a spin-glass-like behavior. The differen
ces observed in the magnetic behavior of both compounds are assigned to the
effect of random anisotropy due to the presence of structural disorder. (C
) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.