Observation of domain-wall dynamic lattice distortion in rare-earth orthoferrites while overcoming the sound barrier

Abstract In rare-earth orthoferrites TmFeO 3 and DyFeO 3 light diffraction on dynamic lattice distortions, produced during the domain wall (DW) motion at the moment of passing through the sound barrier, has been observed. The lifetime and the width of excitations have been determined to be 20 ns and 2×10 −6 m, respectively. A polarization change that can be compared with the Faraday rotation value for orthoferrites of this type has been detected. At that moment the DW is shown to become curved along the whole width of the specimen plate.