Spin-current induced magnetotransport in Co/Cu/Co nanostructures

Summary form only given. Recent theory explored effects of a spin-polarized current on a nanosize ferromagnet. Large currents exert a spin-transfer torque on the magnetization that can cause it to reverse or precess. In small devices, spin-transfer dominates over the magnetic field from the current. Experiments on nanosize giant magnetoresistance (GMR) spin valves have shown spin-transfer effects, including current-induced reversal and possible precession of the nanomagnets.