SLAC researchers find proof of altermagnetism, a new magnetic phase

98 points by gmays 20 hours ago on hackernews | 12 comments

clilog_d | 18 hours ago

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

altairprime | 18 hours ago

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

buildbot | 14 hours ago

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

altairprime | 8 hours ago

Mission successful!

kalexandrite | 14 hours ago

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.

ortusdux | 18 hours ago

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

Physics aside, Chiral Altermagnon is a great band name.

Melatonic | 14 hours ago

This is huge if true

kalexandrite | 14 hours ago

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!

reliabilityguy | 4 hours ago

> 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

DonHopkins | 13 hours ago

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

Oarch | 4 hours ago

We are so back (lol)

1970-01-01 | 2 hours ago

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