Spin revolution

TL;DR

This paper introduces a new class of magnetomechanical effects called spin revolution that break time-reversal symmetry through mechanical rotation of a magnet, leading to novel phenomena like upward propulsion and magnetic gyroscopic motion.

Contribution

It reveals a novel class of effects based on spin revolution that break time-reversal symmetry without dissipation, with potential applications in magnetism, robotics, and energy harvesting.

Findings

Discovery of spin revolution effects breaking time-reversal symmetry

Observation of upward propulsion on vertical surfaces

Identification of magnetic gyroscopic motion perpendicular to forces

Abstract

The classical laws of physics are usually invariant under time reversal. Here, we reveal a novel class of magnetomechanical effects rigorously breaking time-reversal symmetry. The effect is based on the mechanical rotation of a hard magnet around its magnetization axis in the presence of friction and an external magnetic field, which we call spin revolution. The physical reason for time-reversal symmetry breaking is the spin revolution and not the dissipation. The time-reversal symmetry breaking leads to a variety of unexpected effects including upward propulsion on vertical surfaces defying gravity as well as magnetic gyroscopic motion that is perpendicular to the applied force. In contrast to the spin, the angular momentum of spin revolution can be parallel or antiparallel to the equilibrium magnetization. The spin revolution emerges spontaneously, without external rotations, and offers various applications in areas such as magnetism, robotics and energy harvesting.