A scaling model for the optical anisotropy in magnetic fluids: dichroism and birefringence

A simple scaling model for dichroism and birefringence in magnetic fluids is proposed. This scaling is based on two physically measured quantities, i.e. the initial slope of the optical anistropy curve with magnetic field, and the saturation value of dichroism or birefringence. Using this model, the isothermal dichroism and birefringence are superimposed into a single function. This model is discussed and compared with one similar to that proposed for the magnetization of a superparamagnetic particle system.