MAGNETIC TUNNEL JUNCTION [Preview]

top). When the magnetism of the second ferromagnetic layer is reversed, the tunneling is reduced ("1," bottom)" data-pin-do="buttonBookmark">

Magnetic tunnel junctions have two ferromagnetic layers separated by a thin insulating barrier. The first layer polarizes the spins of current-carrying electrons, which cross the barrier to the second layer by quantum tunneling when both layers are aligned ("0," top). When the magnetism of the second ferromagnetic layer is reversed, the tunneling is reduced ("1," bottom) Image: SLIM FILMS

MRAMs (magnetic random-access memories) store data in magnetic tunnel junctions, which retain their states even when the power is off.

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