Select Language

What Are Altermagnets? How CrSb Could Revolutionize Spintronics & Electronics

Staying updated with current affairs and scientific breakthroughs is crucial for competitive exam preparation. Altermagnets, particularly Chromium Antimonide (CrSb), are emerging as a game-changing discovery in material science, with vast implications for electronics and spintronics. This complete guide simplifies the concept for easy preparation, making MyEntrance.in the best site to learn key exam topics.

What Are Altermagnets?
Altermagnets are a new class of magnetic materials that combine features of ferromagnets (externally magnetic) and antiferromagnets (no net magnetism). Unlike traditional magnets, they don’t show surface magnetism but have unique internal electron behaviors, making them ideal for future electronic devices.

Why is Chromium Antimonide (CrSb) Special?
Metallic & Highly Stable: Maintains magnetic properties even at double room temperature.
Largest Spin-Splitting Recorded: Exceeds 30 times that of conventional materials.
Dual Conduction (DDCP):
Parallel current flow → Conducts like n-type (electron-based).
Perpendicular current flow → Conducts like p-type (hole-based).
Eco-Friendly: Made of non-toxic, earth-abundant elements, making it sustainable.

Why is This Important for Exams?
Frequently asked in science & technology sections of SSC, PSC, UPSC, NID, NIFT, and other entrance exams.
Helps in understanding cutting-edge innovations for GK and current affairs.
Useful for engineering and design entrance exams (like FDDI, NIFT) focusing on material science.

Sample Questions & Answers:
1. What are altermagnets?
Answer: A new class of magnetic materials combining features of ferromagnets and antiferromagnets, useful in spintronics.
2. What makes Chromium Antimonide (CrSb) unique?
Answer: It exhibits direction-dependent conduction polarity (DDCP), acting as both n-type and p-type under different conditions.
3. Why is CrSb environmentally beneficial?
Answer: It is made of non-toxic, earth-abundant materials, making it a sustainable choice for future electronics.
4. What is the significance of spin-splitting in CrSb?
Answer: It shows the largest altermagnetic spin-splitting, making it highly efficient for electronic applications.
5. How can altermagnets impact future technology?
Answer: They can simplify device manufacturing by eliminating the need for separate p-type and n-type materials.