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Introduction to Magnetism
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:02:03
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 a regular course of the Physics MSc program and aims at letting students familiarize themselves with the basic principles of quantum and statistical physics that determine the behavior of real magnets. Understanding why only few materials are magnetic at finite temperature will be the leitmotiv of the course. We will see that defining in a formal way what "being magnetic" means is essential to address this question properly. Theoretical concepts will be applied to few selected nano-sized magnets, which will serve as clean reference systems. At the end of this course students should have acquired the basic knowledge needed to develop a research project in the field of magnetism or to attend effectively more advanced courses on this topic. Preliminary contents for the HS21: - 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 solids (shape anisotropy, dipolar frustration, origin of magnetic domains)
Resources
Lecture Notes
Learning material will be made available through a dedicated RStudioServer and through Moodle.
Learning Materials (Links)
- Moodle course
- Moodle-Kurs / Moodle course
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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Elective Courses (The students are free to choose individually from the entire course offer of ETH Zürich on the Master level. Please consult the study administration in case of questions.)
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Doctorate Materials Science (Further information at: )
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Doctorate Physics (More Information at: )
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Subject Specialisation (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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