External Magnetic Field & Electron Spin Interaction

In summary, the conversation discusses the interaction between an external field and a system of electron spins. The speaker questions whether the system can assume a specific value for B and if the electrons are bound or unbound. It is mentioned that the lecture notes pertain to a Solid State Physics course and that the electrons are typically bound to a crystal. The slide in question also mentions the calculation of temperature based on the external field and the ratio of electrons with parallel and anti-parallel spins. The speaker suggests considering this information in the context of the course and mentions the use of band-theory to treat the electrons as bound to the crystal.
  • #1
The Head
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In my lecture notes, there is a slide about an external field interacting with a system of electron spins. In this situation can we assume that B=B_0 ( or in other words that μ_0*M =0)? I would think so, but does a system of electron spins imply that these electrons belong to some matter configuration (are bound), or can they to be treated as unbound electrons?
 
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  • #2
You will have to consider all that in the context of the lecture course ... there's not enough information.
 
  • #3
It's a Solid State Physics Course. The slide says that if you know the external field and the ratio of the number of electrons with spin parallel to anti-parallel that we can calculate the temperature when a field interacts with a set of electron spins.
 
  • #4
In solid state the electrons are usually bound to some sort of crystal - the solid.
You'll have done band-theory(?) so the electrons are (usually) treated as bound to a well that spans the entire crystal with the effect of unscreened lattice charges added as a perturbation.
 
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What is an external magnetic field?

An external magnetic field is a magnetic field that is created outside of a material or object. It can be created by magnets, electric currents, or other sources.

How does an external magnetic field interact with electron spin?

An external magnetic field can interact with electron spin through a phenomenon called the Zeeman effect, where the energy levels of electrons are split due to the presence of the magnetic field. This can result in changes in the behavior and properties of the electrons.

What is the significance of the interaction between external magnetic field and electron spin?

The interaction between external magnetic field and electron spin is significant in many fields, including physics, chemistry, and engineering. It is the basis for technologies such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and can also provide insight into the behavior of particles at the atomic and subatomic levels.

How can we control the interaction between external magnetic field and electron spin?

The interaction between external magnetic field and electron spin can be controlled by adjusting the strength and orientation of the magnetic field. This can be done using various techniques such as using electromagnets or changing the shape of the magnetic field.

What are some real-life applications of the interaction between external magnetic field and electron spin?

Some real-life applications of the interaction between external magnetic field and electron spin include MRI technology, spintronics (a type of electronics that uses the spin of electrons to store and transfer information), and quantum computing. It also plays a role in the behavior of materials such as superconductors and magnetic materials.

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