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Introduction to Magnetism
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:35:49
Abstract
Atomic paramagnetism and diamagnetism, intinerant and local-moment interatomic coupling, magnetic order at finite temperature, spin precession, approach to equilibrium through thermal and quantum dynamics, dipolar interaction in solids.
Objective
- Apply concepts of quantum-mechanics to estimate the strength of atomic magnetic moments and their interactions - Identify the mechanisms from which exchange interaction originates in solids (itinerant and local-moment magnetism) - Evaluate the consequences of the interplay between competing interactions and thermal energy - Apply general concepts of statistical physics to determine the origin of bistability in realistic magnets - Discriminate the dynamic responses of a magnet to different external stimuli
Content
The lecture ''Introduction to Magnetism'' is the regular course on Magnetism for the Master curriculum of the Department of Physics of ETH Zurich. With respect to specialized courses related to Magnetism such as "Quantum Solid State Magnetism" (K. Povarov and A. Zheludev) or "Ferromagnetism: From Thin Films to Spintronics" (R. Allenspach), this lecture focusses on why only few materials are magnetic at finite temperature. We will see that defining what we understand by "being magnetic" in a formal way is essential to address this question properly. Preliminary contents for the HS20: - Magnetism in atoms (quantum-mechanical origin of atomic magnetic moments, intra-atomic exchange interaction) - Magnetism in solids (mechanisms producing inter-atomic exchange interaction in solids, crystal field). - Spin resonance and relaxation (Larmor precession, resonance phenomena, quantum tunneling, Bloch equation, superparamagnetism) - Magnetic order at finite temperatures (Ising and Heisenberg models, low-dimensional magnetism) - Dipolar interaction in ferromagnets (shape anisotropy, frustration and modulated phases of magnetic domains)
Resources
Lecture Notes
Learning material will be made available during the course:- through the Moodle portal- through a dedicated RStudio ServerThe lecture is meant to be in-person. The automatic lecture hall recordings provided by ID-MMS will be placed on the linkhttps://www.video.ethz.ch/lectures/d-phys/2020/autumn/402-0535-00L.html
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- DR , MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- oral 30 minutes
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise | Introduction to Magnetism |
|
3 h weekly |
Offered In
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Doctoral Department of Physics (More Information at: )
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Doctoral and Post-Doctoral Courses (Please note that this is an INCOMPLETE list of courses.)
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Electives (This is a selection of courses particularly suitable for the MSc QE. In agreement with the tutor, students may choose other courses from the ETH course catalogue.)
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