Scientists recently uncovered a fascinating twist on a well-known concept: the Faraday effect. This effect, first described by Michael Faraday in 1845, explains how light changes when it passes through a material under a magnetic field. Traditionally, it focused on the electric field aspect of light, but new research reveals that the magnetic part of light also plays a significant role.
When light travels, it can be unpolarized (like many directions waving about) or polarized (all moving in one direction). Under a magnetic field, the polarized light changes direction. A fresh study from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem challenges long-held beliefs by showing that light’s polarization can actually create a magnetic moment in materials as well.
The researchers used complex calculations alongside their experiments to analyze the Faraday effect further. They discovered that light’s magnetic field might contribute about 17% to the effect in visible light and as much as 70% in infrared light—a significant finding. This points to a deeper relationship between light and magnetism than previously understood.
Physicist Amir Capua sums it up: “Light doesn’t just illuminate matter; it magnetically influences it.” This insight suggests that light’s magnetic field interacts not only with an electron’s charge but also with its spin—an essential property of electrons that can be compared to a tiny spinning top.
This breakthrough could change how we control light and matter, opening doors to advancements in technology. For instance, it may enhance memory storage and computing power, especially in quantum computing, where controlling electron spins is crucial. Benjamin Assouline, an electrical engineer, noted that this research could allow us to directly manipulate magnetic information using light.
In summary, the study not only updates a historic scientific principle but also hints at the exciting possibilities for future technologies. Research like this keeps reminding us that science continuously evolves, revealing new layers within our understanding of the world.
For more insights on the Faraday effect, you can check out the study published in Scientific Reports.
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