Anisotropic magnetization-induced second harmonic generation in Fe/Au superlattices - art. no. 184427

The anisotropic nonlinear magneto-optical response from Fe/Au(001) superlat tices is studied. Perfect single-crystalline order through the whole thickn ess of the multilayer is observed. The magneto-optical signals are measured in both the longitudinal and transversal configurations. A strong fourfold anisotropy of nonlinear Kerr rotation angle is demonstrated, in addition t o the anisotropic second harmonic intensity changes. The results are descri bed in terms of a simple phenomenological model, that involve both dipole a nd quadrupole nonlinear-optical interactions. Furthermore. general, model-i ndependent symmetry properties of the nonlinear magneto-optical response ar e established.