Spin-transfer torque induced reversal in magnetic domains

Abstract

Using the complex stereographic variable representation for the macrospin, from a study of the nonlinear dynamics underlying the generalized Landau-Lifshitz (LL) equation with Gilbert damping, we show that the spin-transfer torque is effectively equivalent to an applied magnetic field. We study the macrospin switching on a Stoner particle due to spin-transfer torque on application of a spin-polarized current. We find that the switching due to spin-transfer torque is a more effective alternative to switching by an applied external field in the presence of damping. We demonstrate numerically that a spin-polarized current in the form of a short pulse can be effectively employed to achieve the desired macrospin switching.