Magnetic and transport properties of some light rare earth tungstates

Measurements relating to molar magnetic susceptibility, dc electrical conductivity and thermoelectric power of Nd, Sm, Eu and Gd are reported. The ac electrical conductivity at a few temperature ranges is also given. It is found that it follows the Curie-Weiss law behaviour and this has been attributed to the crystal field effect. The experimental value of Bohr magneton for the magnetic ions has been found to be in good agreement with theory. Thermoelectric power is negative in the measured temperature range suggesting these materials to bep-type semi-conductors and holes as the dominant charge carriers. The results are explained using band theory.