Dynamics of a tensor polarization of particles and nuclei and its influence on the spin motion in external fields

Abstract

The tensor polarization of particles and nuclei is constant in a coordinate system rotating with the same angular velocity as the spin. In the laboratory frame, it rotates with this angular velocity. The general equation defining the evolution of the tensor polarization is derived. An explicit form of the dynamics of this polarization is given in the case when the angular velocity of the spin precession is constant and vertical. It is shown that the spin tensor interactions result in mutual transformations of the vector and tensor polarizations. These interactions can influence the spin motion.