– Scientists have created, manipulated, and imaged a new type of magnetic material called an “altermagnet” for the first time. This was previously just a theoretical concept.
– Altermagnetism is believed to combine the properties of ferromagnetism and antiferromagnetism, which were previously thought to be incompatible.
– Researchers used photoemission electron microscopy to map the magnetic spin patterns within a crystalline structure of manganese telluride. They were able to directly observe and manipulate the directions of magnetism.
– This discovery could have implications for advanced technologies like quantum computers, spintronics, and superconductors. The ability to precisely control electron spin patterns at the nanoscale could lead to improvements in data storage, efficiency, and the study of exotic materials.
Source: Popular Mechanics
