Dependence of strength of spin-orbit interaction on polarity of interface

Abstract

It was experimentally observed that both magnetic anisotropy and spin-orbit interaction strength change when the magnetization of the nanomagnet is reversed. This indicates a variation in spin-orbit interaction strength depending on whether the magnetic field penetrates the interface from a ferromagnetic to a non-magnetic metal or vice versa. Systematic measurements of over 100 nanomagnets revealed a consistent, yet unexpected, pattern between variations in magnetic anisotropy and spin-orbit interactions with magnetization reversal. These changes align along a single straight line with a negative slope, suggesting a complex and indirect relationship. Our findings also suggest the presence of an additional, yet-to-be-identified effect that influences the change in magnetic anisotropy with magnetization reversal, beyond the variations in spin-orbit interaction strength. This finding highlights the complexity of magnetic behavior at the nanoscale and the critical role of magnetization direction in determining anisotropic properties.