Excitation of magnons or spin-waves driven by nominally unpolarized transport currents in point contacts of normal and ferromagnetic metals is probed by irradiating the contacts with microwaves. Two characteristic dynamic effects are observed: a rectification of off-resonance microwave current by spin-wave nonlinearities in the point contact conductance, and a resonant stimulation of spin-wave modes in the nano-contact core by the microwave field. These observations provide a direct evidence that the magnetoconductance effects observed are due to GHz spin dynamics at the ferromagnetic interface driven by the spin transfer torque effect of the transport current

Phonon spectroscopy is used to investigate the mechanism of current-induced spin torques in nonmagnetic/ferromagnetic (N/F) point contacts. Magnetization excitations observed in the magneto-conductance of the point contacts are pronounced for diffusive and thermal contacts, where the electrons experience significant scattering in the contact region. We find no magnetic excitations in highly ballistic contacts. Our results show that impurity scattering at the N/F interface is the origin of the new single-interface spin torque effect.

We report an observation of spin-valve-like hysteresis within a few atomic layers at a ferromagnetic interface. We use phonon spectroscopy of nanometer-sized point contacts as an in situ probe to study the mechanism of the effect. Distinctive energy phonon peaks for contacts with dissimilar nonmagnetic outer electrodes allow localizing the observed spin switching to the top or bottom interfaces for nanometer thin ferromagnetic layers. The mechanism consistent with our data is energetically distinct atomically thin surface spin layers that can form current- or field-driven surface spin-valves within a single ferromagnetic film.

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We report on the results of observations of a type IV burst by URAN-2 (Ukrainian Radio interferometer of Academy Scienses) in the frequency range 22 -33 MHz, which is associated with the CME (coronal mass ejection) initiated by a behindthe-limb active region (N05E151). This burst was observed also by the radio telescope NDA (Nancay Decameter Array ) in the frequency band 30-60 MHz. The purpose of the article is the determination of the source of this type IV burst. After analysis of the observational data obtained with the URAN-2, NDA, STEREO (Solar-Terrestrial Relations Observatory) A and B spacecraft, and SOHO (Solar and Heliospheric Observatory) spacecraft we come to the conclusion that it is a core of a behind-the-limb CME. We conclude that the radio emission can escape the center of the CME core at a frequency of 60 MHz and originates from the periphery of the core at frequency 30 MHz due to occultation by the solar corona at corresponding frequencies. We find plasma densities in these regions supposing the plasma mechanism of radio emission. We show that the frequency drift of the start of the type IV burst is governed by an expansion of the CME core. Type III bursts, which were observed against this type IV burst, are shown to be generated by fast electrons propagating through the CME core plasma. A type II burst registered at frequencies 44 -64 MHz and 3 -16 MHz was radiated by a shock with a velocity of about 1000 km s −1 and 800 km s −1 , respectively.

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Lightning was detected by Voyager 2 at Uranus and Neptune, and weaker electrical processes also occur throughout planetary atmospheres from galactic cosmic ray (GCR) ionisation. Lightning is an indicator of convection, whereas electrical processes away from storms modulate cloud formation and chemistry, particularly if there is little insolation to drive other mechanisms. The ice giants appear to be unique in the Solar System in that they are distant enough from the Sun for GCR-related mechanisms to be significant for clouds and climate, yet also convective enough for lightning to occur. This paper reviews observations (both from Voyager 2 and Earth), data analysis and modelling, and considers options for future missions. Radio, energetic particle and magnetic instruments are recommended for future orbiters, and Huygens-like atmospheric electricity sensors for in situ observations. Uranian lightning is also expected to be detectable from terrestrial radio telescopes.

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