Infrared Spectra of Ferrites

The infrared spectra of 7 ferrites of the formula $M{\mathrm{Fe}}_{2}{\mathrm{O}}_{4}$, where $M$ designates a divalent metal, are presented and analyzed. Electronic absorption was observed in the visible and near-infrared regions. Two absorption bands arising from interatomic vibrations were measured and force constants calculated for the stretching of bonds between octahedral or tetrahedral metal ions and oxide ions. These force constants are in agreement with the elastic and thermodynamic properties of these compounds and are sensitive to distribution of metal ions between the alternate sites. The integrated vibrational band intensities were measured: they are compatible with predominantly ionic bonding for these structures.