Spin-orbit scattering in thin films and on surfaces measured by weak localization

Magnetoresistance measurements on thin disordered films yield the spin-orbit scattering time ${\tau }_{\mathrm{so}}$ of the conduction electrons by means of weak localization. The spin-orbit scattering is used to check the time scale of weak localization. The dependence of ${\tau }_{\mathrm{so}}$ on the residual resistivity of Ag films is measured, and the strength of the spin-orbit scattering of an Au atom at the surface and in the bulk of Mg is compared.