Breakthrough Discovery: Detecting Magnetism in Non-Magnetic Metals Using Light

In a groundbreaking advancement, researchers at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem have successfully detected magnetic signals in non-magnetic metals using light, a feat that has eluded scientists for over a century. This innovative technique, which employs a blue laser and sophisticated modulation methods, has the potential to revolutionize various technological fields, including smartphone technology, data storage, and quantum computing.

Historically, the study of magnetism has predominantly focused on ferromagnetic materials, which exhibit strong magnetic properties. However, non-magnetic metals such as copper and gold, despite their apparent lack of magnetism, respond subtly to magnetic fields—a phenomenon known as the optical Hall effect. This effect has been exceedingly difficult to measure due to its faint nature at visible wavelengths. Previous attempts to detect these signals have been thwarted by limitations in measurement technology.

The researchers at Hebrew University have refined a classic measurement technique known as the magneto-optical Kerr effect (MOKE), enhancing its sensitivity to detect minimal magnetic influences in conventional metals. By combining a 440-nanometer blue laser with a powerful, pulsing magnetic field, they were able to uncover magnetic “echoes” within materials that were previously thought to lack magnetic properties.

As outlined by Ph.D. candidate Am Shalom, this discovery is akin to deciphering static noise on a radio; what was once dismissed as interference is now recognized as valuable information. The research team’s findings, published in the journal Nature Communications on July 23, 2025, underscore a significant leap in understanding the underlying physical principles governing magnetism in everyday materials.

In the process, the researchers noted unexpected patterns in their data associated with spin-orbit coupling, a quantum mechanical effect that links the motion and spin of electrons. This correlation not only sheds light on how magnetic energy dissipates within materials but also holds implications for the development of advanced technologies such as magnetic memory and spintronic devices.

Prof. Amir Capua, a leading author of the study, remarked, “This research turns a nearly 150-year-old scientific problem into a new opportunity.” He highlighted that even Edwin Hall, who first described the Hall effect in 1881, was unable to successfully measure the effects of non-magnetic metals using light.

The implications of this research extend beyond theoretical physics. The new technique is non-invasive and remarkably simple, eliminating the need for cumbersome equipment typically associated with magnetic measurements. This ease of use may enable engineers and scientists to explore novel applications in faster processors, energy-efficient electronics, and highly accurate sensors.

Looking forward, the ability to detect and manipulate magnetism in everyday metals could lead to the development of smarter, more sustainable technologies. As the researchers continue to refine their methods, the future of electronics and quantum computing may hinge on the insights gleaned from this remarkable achievement, opening new pathways into the quantum realm of material science.

In summary, by tuning into the right frequency and employing innovative detection methods, scientists have unveiled a hidden world of magnetism within non-magnetic materials, marking a pivotal moment in the study of physics and its real-world applications. The research not only contributes to a deeper understanding of fundamental principles but also paves the way for next-generation technological advancements.