Spin Polarized Transport Through a Single-Molecule Magnet: Current-Induced Magnetic Switching

Abstract

Magnetic switching of a single-molecule magnet (SMM) due to spin-polarized current is investigated theoretically. The charge transfer between the electrodes takes place via the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) of the SMM. Generally, the double occupancy of the LUMO level, and a finite on-site Coulomb repulsion, is taken into account. Owing to the exchange interaction between electrons in the LUMO level and the SMM's spin, the latter can be reversed. The perturbation approach (Fermi golden rule) is applied to calculate current-voltage characteristics. The influence of Coulomb interactions on the switching process is also analyzed.