SLAC researchers find proof of altermagnetism, a new magnetic phase

www6.slac.stanford.edu

113 points·gmays··14 comments

Link to pub - https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adv3196

Physics aside, Chiral Altermagnon is a great band name.

Free preprint:

Some of the sexiest sounding sentences in research findings I have read. “ Their results showed direct experimental evidence of chirality – an asymmetric magnetic structure, akin to a spiral staircase or a screw – in the spins of an altermagnetic candidate material.”

I appreciate the clarity that crystallizes in poetry that this author manages in their report!

> Altermagnetic materials could be used to design advanced electronics, with applications including quantum technologies, memory devices and data centers.

I liked this bit: low level devices and data centers — as if these are on the same scale

Wait so this is distinct from antiferromagnetism how exactly, I thought the net-zero moment was the whole definition there?

The paper’s abstract may answer your question. (see link above)

After reading the abstract and intro, I personally have more questions than when I started!

Mission successful!

In fact, I think you will find it is exceptionally clear writing. I think almost anyone can understand the differences and what is alter even with a quick read.

So Insane Clown Posse was right all along to question how fuckin' magnets work.

I believe ICP was quoting Bill O’Reilly, though I suspect they also do not elucidate the matter any further.

Maybe now we can fab a memristor for less than the cost of an entire used iPhone?

We are so back (lol)

This is huge if true

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