Spin-orbit induced magnetic phenomena in bulk metals and their surfaces and interfaces

First-principles electronic structure studies based on local spin density f unctional theory and performed on extremely complex simulations of ever inc reasingly realistic systems, play a very important role in explaining and p redicting surface and interface magnetism. This review deals with what is a major issue for first-principles theory, namely the theoretical/computatio nal treatment of the weak spin-orbit coupling in magnetic transition metals and their alloys and its important physical consequences: magneto-crystall ine anisotropy, magnetostriction, magneto-optical Kerr effects and X-ray ma gnetic circular dichroism. As is demonstrated, extensive first-principles c alculations and model analyses now provide simple physical insights and gui delines to search for new magnetic recording and sensor materials. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.