The Einstein–de Haas Effect and Its Application to Spin-Driven Molecular Motors

Abstract

When the angular momentum of spin is converted into that of lattice, it gives a mechanical torque for rotation to the system, which is known as the Einstein–de Haas effect. Here, we propose to utilize this principle to create spin-driven molecular motors. Despite the fundamental challenge due to a small driving torque, the mechanism is potentially important in terms of nanotechnology and spintronics. We consider the required conditions for the rotational motion using a classical resonator model as the first step toward its future realization.