The electric field gradient in noncubic metals

Electric field gradients present at the atomic nuclei in solids may be studied through the nuclear electric quadrupole interaction by several methods. In noncubic metallic systems, a large amount of data has become available and is critically testing our theoretical understanding of the sources of field gradients in these systems. After summarizing the relevant measurement techniques, we discuss the development of the existing experimental data base and the various theoretical approaches to explain it. Comprehensive coverage of the published literature extends through 1977.