The article discusses the phenomenon of spin-orbit torque, which involves the interaction between electrical currents and magnetic materials at the nanoscale. This effect has potential applications in magnetic memory devices and other electronic components.
The basic principle involves the alignment of electron spins with the magnetization of a ferromagnetic material. When an electric current flows through a bilayer of a heavy metal and a ferromagnet, it can induce a torque on the magnetization, potentially enabling new types of magnetic memory and electronic devices.
Theoretical studies aim to understand and predict the behavior of spin-orbit torques in various systems, helping engineers design novel devices and optimize their performance. The research involves breaking down the complex interactions between electrons and magnetic materials into a series of quantum mechanical steps, allowing for reliable predictions and device design.
Source: https://www.nist.gov/programs-projects/theory-spin-orbit-torque
Keywords: ferromagnet, spin-orbit torque, magnetic memory, quantum physics
