Dynamic Kerr Effect and Spectral Weight Transfer in the Manganites

TL;DR

This study uses pump-probe Kerr spectroscopy to reveal surface magnetic dynamics and the interplay of spin and charge in manganites, uncovering long-lived magneto-optical effects that differ from conventional ferromagnetic metals.

Contribution

It demonstrates the effectiveness of Kerr spectroscopy in detecting surface magnetic dynamics and highlights differences in magneto-optical behavior in manganites compared to traditional ferromagnetic metals.

Findings

Surface magnetic dynamics detected by Kerr effects

Weaker spin-charge coupling than previously thought

Long-lived magneto-optical transients observed

Abstract

We perform pump-probe Kerr spectroscopy in the colossally magnetoresistive manganite Pr0.67Ca0.33MnO3. Kerr effects uncover surface magnetic dynamics undetected by established methods based on reflectivity and optical spectral weight transfer. Our findings indicate the connection between spin and charge dynamics in the manganites may be weaker than previously thought. Additionally, important differences between this system and conventional ferromagnetic metals manifest as long-lived, magneto-optical coupling transients, which may be generic to all manganites.