Breakthrough in rare-earth magnetism promises more efficient quantum technologies

Key Points

1. Scientists discovered a new type of magnetism in a rare-earth compound, neodymium nitride (NdN).
2. The magnetism in NdN arises from the orbital angular momentum of electrons, unlike conventional ferromagnetism driven by electron spin.
3. The research was led by the Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR).
4. The findings were published in ACS Nano.
5. The study highlights the potential of 'orbitronics' for future quantum and spintronic technologies.
6. India holds nearly 8% of the world's rare-earth reserves.