Magnetization rotation or generation of incoherent spin waves? Suggestions for a spin-transfer effect experiment

Abstract

"Spin-transfer" torque is created when electric current is passed through metallic ferromagnets and may have interesting applications in spintronics. So far it was experimentally studied in "collinear" geometries, where it is difficult to predict whether magnetization will coherently rotate or spin-waves will be generated. Here we propose an easy modification of existing experiment in which the spin-polarization of incoming current will no longer be collinear with magnetization and recalculate the switching behavior of the device. We expect that a better agreement with the magnetization rotation theory will be achieved. That can be an important step in reconciling alternative points of view on the effect of spin-transfer torque. © 2003 Ya.B. Bazaliy. Published by Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.