Controlled Manipulation of Individual Vortices in a Superconductor

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates precise control and manipulation of individual vortices in a superconductor using a magnetic force microscope, enabling new ways to study and utilize vortex behavior.

Contribution

It introduces a novel method for local manipulation of vortices in superconductors, allowing arbitrary positioning and force measurement.

Findings

Successful manipulation of single vortices in Nb superconductor

Ability to measure local depinning forces

Potential for advanced vortex characterization

Abstract

We report controlled local manipulation of single vortices by low temperature magnetic force microscope (MFM) in a thin film of superconducting Nb. We are able to position the vortices in arbitrary configurations and to measure the distribution of local depinning forces. This technique opens up new possibilities for the characterization and use of vortices in superconductors.