Spin Motion of Electrons during Reflection from a Ferromagnetic Surface

Abstract

If electrons are reflected from a ferromagnet, the spin moves depending on the magnetization vector of the ferromagnetic surface. The spin motion, consisting of a precession around the magnetization direction and a rotation into it, is measured and explained in terms of the electronic band structure of the ferromagnet. If applications within a solid-state device are considered, sizeable transverse torques on the magnetization due to the spin precession can be expected.