Dartmouth Events

Abstract: Study of the combined effects of strong electronic correlations with spin-orbit coupling (SOC) represents a central issue in quantum materials research. Predicting emergent properties represents a huge theoretical problem since the presence of SOC implies that the spin is not a good quantum number. Existing theories propose the emergence of a multitude of exotic quantum phases, distinguishable by either local point symmetry breaking or local spin expectation values,  even in materials with simple cubic crystal structure such as Ba$_2$NaOsO$_6$. Experimental tests of such   theories by local probes are highly sought for.  In this talk, I will discussed our  local  measurements designed to concurrently probe spin and orbital/lattice degrees of freedom of Ba$_2$NaOsO$_6$. Furthermore,  novel ways to manipulate electronic spin in materials where  spin is not a good quantum number due to strong coupling of spin and orbital degrees of freedom, will be presented.