Multiple easy-axis changes in magnetostrictive Tb0.88DY0.12Zn

Magnetization measurements were made on a single crystal sample of Tb0.88Dy 0.12Zn from 4 K to room temperature, Easy-axis reorientations were found at about 46 K, 42.5 K, and 10 K, The presences of [100] easy, [uv0] easy and [110] easy and a return to a second [uv0] easy phase were deduced from thes e data. A discontinuous change in easy direction at 63 K was found for a Tb Zn single crystal, Magnetostriction measurements were made under compressio n at 77 K on a single crystal rod of Tb0.88Dy0.12Zn. lambda(100) was determ ined to be 0.53%, An interpretation of the magnetization vs. magnetic field orientation data is given based on a phenomenological model, In particular ; it is noted that two maxima in the magnetization vs. orientation curves a re consequences of low magnetic anisotropy they do not imply the coexistenc e of two free energy minima.