Discoverers of altermagnetism, a third form of magnetism, win major physics prize
· Science
Physicists who uncovered altermagnetism, described as a hidden third form of magnetism, have won a major physics prize. The report says the finding challenges more than 100 years of established physics and could transform future computing and electronics while opening a new frontier in quantum research. The prize's name, the recipients and the awarding body are not given in the item, and no technical details of the magnetic ordering are provided. Altermagnetism is presented as distinct from the two long-recognised forms, ferromagnetism and antiferromagnetism; its appeal for industry lies in combining robust magnetic order with electronic properties that could be exploited in memory and logic devices.
Why it matters:If altermagnets can be engineered into devices, they would offer a route to fast, low-power memory and logic, which is why the recognition of the field matters well beyond condensed-matter physics.
Key points
- Altermagnetism is described as a third form of magnetism.
- The report links it to future computing and electronics.
- The award's name, recipients and granting body are not stated in the item.
Sources (original reporting)
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