Quantum Forces in Molecular Magnets

TL;DR

This paper predicts quantum-origin mechanical forces in molecular magnets caused by quantum tunneling between degenerate states, observable under specific magnetic and microwave conditions.

Contribution

It introduces the concept of quantum forces in molecular magnets resulting from tunneling, a novel insight into quantum effects in magnetic systems.

Findings

Quantum tunneling induces mechanical forces in molecular magnets.

These forces can be detected with microwave and magnetic field gradients.

The work links quantum tunneling to measurable mechanical effects.

Abstract

Two-state systems may exhibit mechanical forces of purely quantum origin that have no counterpart in classical physics. We show that the such forces must exist in molecular magnets due to quantum tunneling between classically degenerate magnetic states. They can be observed in the presence of a microwave field when the magnet is placed in a static magnetic field with a gradient.