Magnetization dynamics driven by angle-dependent spin-orbit spin transfer torque

Abstract

Spin-orbit spin transfer torque allows an efficient control of magnetization by an in-plane current. Recent experiments found that the spin-orbit torque has strong dependence on the magnetization angle [Garello et al., Nature Nanotechnol. 8, 587 (2013); Qiu et al., Sci. Rep. 4, 4491 (2014)]. We theoretically investigate magnetization switching and domain wall motion in a perpendicularly magnetized layer, induced by angle-dependent spin-orbit torque. We obtain analytic expressions of the switching current and domain wall velocity, in agreement with numerical results. Based on the expressions, we find that the spin-orbit torque increasing with the polar angle of magnetization is beneficial for both switching and domain wall motion. Our result will serve as a guideline to design and interpret switching and domain wall experiments based on spin-orbit torque.