Researchers at the University of Missouri have discovered a new type of quasiparticle that occurs in all magnetic materials, regardless of their temperature or magnetic field strength. The work was published in the journal Physical Review Research (PRR), Day.Az reports with reference to Gazeta.ru.
Quasiparticles are particles that describe the collective behavior of many interacting particles, such as electrons, atoms, or spins. They do not exist in the usual sense, like electrons or protons, but are a convenient way to describe complex physical processes.
Scientists have recently discovered new quasiparticles – tiny formations that move in magnetic materials and have unique properties. These quasiparticles arise as a result of the interaction of electron spins – the carriers of magnetic properties in materials – under certain conditions, for example, in nanomagnetic lattices, where there are strong geometric restrictions.
“Our quasiparticles can be compared to bubbles in carbonated drinks,” explained Professor Karsten Ullrich, leader of the study. “They move freely at incredible speeds.”
One of the key areas of application of the discovery is spintronics – a technology that uses the spins of electrons instead of their electrical charge to store and process information.
“The use of our particles in spintronics will allow, for example, to extend the life of a phone battery by hundreds of hours,” Singh said.
Researchers do not yet fully understand all the mechanisms that control the behavior of these quasiparticles. The next steps will be aimed at studying their interaction with external magnetic fields.