Abstract. The dynamics of a single spin embedded in a tunnel junction between ferromagnetic contacts is strongly affected by the exchange coupling to the tunneling electrons. Moment reversal of the local spin induced by the bias voltage across the junction is shown to have a measurable effect on the tunneling current. Furthermore, the frequency of a harmonic bias voltage is picked up by the local spin dynamics and transferred back to the current, generating a double frequency component.

Print publication: Issue 28 (16 July 2008)
Received 4 February 2008, in final form 9 May 2008
Published 3 June 2008