The diffusion constant of spins in ferromagnets or of molecules in binary mixtures near the critical point is discussed employing a time-dependent Ising model in which spin interactions are replaced by certain temperature-dependent transition probabilities of spin exchange. The spin diffusion constant is calculated with the single approximation of replacing a reduced spin distribution function by its value for local equilibrium with a given inhomogeneous spin density. The behavior of the diffusion constant near the critical point is dominated by a factor ${\chi }^{-1\mathrm{}}$, where $\chi$ is the magnetic susceptibility. This problem is also studied with the use of the Bethe lattice. The effects of surrounding spins on the transition probability for spin exchange are found to be essential for obtaining the critical slowing-down near the critical point. In view of this, Kociński's calculation of the spin diffusion constant is critically discussed.

• Received 18 November 1965

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRev.145.224