Magnetic ordering in Tb_xFe_1-x amorphous films: An application of x-ray dichroism with linearly polarized light

Magnetic x-ray dichroism (MXD) in the 3d→4f absorption transitions of rare-earth ions is a new tool for the investigation of local magnetic properties. We have measured MXD in amorphous Tb-Fe magnetic thin films, showing its potentials and advantages with respect to other techniques, especially when surface magnetic properties are investigated.