Nanomechanics of an individual vortex in an anisotropic type-II superconductor

TL;DR

This paper develops a theoretical model describing how an individual vortex in an anisotropic type-II superconductor deforms under magnetic force microscopy manipulation, aligning with experimental observations.

Contribution

It introduces equations that account for vortex deformation, pinning, and elastic forces, providing a new framework to interpret vortex manipulation experiments.

Findings

Reproduces key features of experimental vortex deformation data.

Provides a quantitative description of vortex response to magnetic tip forces.

Enhances understanding of vortex pinning and dynamics in anisotropic superconductors.

Abstract

As shown in recent experiments [Auslaender et al., Nature Physics 5, 35 (2009)] magnetic force microscopy permits one not only to image but also to manipulate an individual vortex in type-II superconductors, and this manipulation provides a new powerful tool to study vortex dynamics and pinning. We derive equations that describe the deformation of an individual vortex in an anisotropic biaxial type-II superconductor under the action of the microscope's magnetic tip. These equations take into account the driving force generated by the tip, the elastic force caused by the vortex deformation, and the pinning force exerted by point defects. Using these equations, we reproduce the main features of the experimental data obtained by Auslaender et al.