Physics Colloquium: Interplay of Chirality, Spin and Charge in DNA-type Chiral Matrials

Abstract: 

The chirality-spin interaction is a fascinating topic for physicists and chemists. Chiral molecules like DNA generate giant spin polarization (> 60%) in nanodevices characterized by large magnetoresistance at room temperature. This phenomenon, called chirality-induced spin selectivity (CISS), paves a pathway for unconventional spintronics, quantum information, and biotechnology. Despite its technology importance, intriguing questions remain regarding the CISS mechanism: How can nonmagnetic organic materials achieve such high spin polarization -- exceeding a permanent magnet (e.g., only 20% for nickel)? Why does the magnetoresistance of chiral molecules violate the Onsager’s reciprocal relation, a fundamental thermodynamic law? In this talk, I will introduce our understanding on CISS and very recent experiments with novel chirality-driven phenomena, which implies new quantum effects to modulate the biological process. 

Event Organizer: Prof. Nissan Itzhaki