Spin-orbit interactions, time-reversal symmetry, and spin selection

Abstract

Spin selective transport is usually associated with spin-orbit interactions. However, these interactions are invariant under time-reversal symmetry, and the Onsager relations and Bardarson's theorem imply that such interactions cannot yield spin selectivity for transport through a junction between two electronic reservoirs. Here, we review several ways to overcome this restriction, using a Zeeman magnetic field, the Aharonov-Bohm phase, time-dependent electric fields that generate time-dependent spin-orbit interactions, time-dependent transients, more than two terminals, leakage, and more than one level per ion on the junction. Our considerations focus on the transport of noninteracting electrons at low temperatures. A possible connection with the phenomenon of chiral-induced spin selectivity (CISS) is pointed out in one of the systems considered.

To appear in J. Chem. Phys., special issue honoring Abraham Nitzan

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Cited by in corpus (2)

• Mind the Gap: From Resolving Theoretical Foundations of Chiral(ity)-Induced Spin Selectivity to Pioneering Implementations in Quantum Sensing
• Weak Electron-Phonon Coupling Is Insufficient to Generate Significant CISS in Two-Terminal Transport