Spin–orbit interaction and spintronics

Abstract

Electron spin has a magnetic moment and interacts with a magnetic field through the Zeeman effect. Thus, it has been conventionally controlled by external magnetic fields, such as electron spin resonance (ESR). Spin–orbit interaction (SOI) is a relativistic effect that converts an electric field into a magnetic field; electron spins feel an effective magnetic field depending on the direction of motion by moving in the electric field. In addition, spin and orbital angular momenta are coupled by SOI, therefore, spin up and down are deflected in opposite directions by the spin Hall Effect. These unique features of SOI allow various electrical spin functionality without the use of any external magnetic field. This study reviews the origins of various SOIs along with their spin-related properties and functionalities.