Quantum mechanics

Cone (formal languages)

Anisotropy

Algorithm

Magnetic field

Spin (aerodynamics)

Phase (matter)

Perpendicular

Magnetization

Materials science

Phase transition

Scattering

Computer science

Thermodynamics

Physics

Nanotechnology

Mathematics

Optics

Thin film

Condensed matter physics

Geometry

Physical Review B

Using coherent soft x-ray scattering we have measured slow magnetization fluctuations in an Au/Co/Au heterostructure near a thermally driven spin-reorientation phase transition. The intermediate scattering function is well described by a stretched exponential, suggesting cooperative motion through the transition. The decay times were found to exhibit a pronounced maximum as a function of temperature. We argue that the transition proceeds through a cone phase in which the local magnetization evolves continuously from a perpendicular to longitudinal orientation. Our results demonstrate a different and fruitful way to probe the complex spatiotemporal dynamics that arise in unusual magnetic phases with competing anisotropies.

Cone phase and magnetization fluctuations in Au/Co/Au thin films near the spin-reorientation transition