Probing spin-charge separation using spin transport

Abstract

Pedagogical discussions are given on what constitutes a signature of spin-charge separation. A proposal is outlined to probe spin-charge separation in the normal state of the high $T_c$ cuprates using spin transport. Specifically, the proposal is to compare the temperature dependences of the spin resistivity and electrical resistivity: Spin-charge separation will be manifested in the different temperature dependences of these two resistivities. We also estimate the spin diffusion length and spin relaxation time scales, and we argue that it should be experimentally feasible to measure the spin transport properties in the cuprates using the spin-injection technique. The on-going spin-injection experiments in the cuprates and related theoretical issues are also discussed.