Spin-flip transitions induced by time-dependent electric fields in surfaces with strong spin-orbit interaction

Abstract

We present a comprehensive theoretical investigation of the light absorption rate at the Pb/Ge(111) surface with strong spin-orbit coupling. Our calculations show that electron spin-flip transitions cause as much as 6% of the total light absorption, representing one order of magnitude enhancement over Rashba-like systems. Thus, it is demonstrated that a substantial part of the light irradiating this nominally non-magnetic surface is attenuated in spin flip processes. Remarkably, the spin-flip transition probability is structured in well defined hot spots within the Brillouin zone where the electron spin experiences a sudden 90 degree rotation. This mechanism offers the possibility of an experimental approach to the spin-orbit phenomena by optical means.

5 pages, 4 figures

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• Oscillating spin-orbit interaction as a source of spin-polarized wave packets in two-terminal nanoscale devices
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