Physicists identify 'octupolar' magnetism, with implications for quantum technologies
Physicists at the University of Toronto have developed a new method to detect 'octupolar' magnetism, a complex magnetic state where particles behave as if they have eight poles. This discovery, achieved by using light to probe atomic vibrations, could lead to advancements in quantum computing and data storage.
Why it matters
Identifying higher-order magnetic states is a foundational step toward developing more efficient and powerful next-generation computing technologies.
edited by Sadie Harley , reviewed by Robert Egan
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:
Add as preferred source Schematic. Credit: arXiv DOI: 10.48550/arxiv.2506.18978 Most magnets have two poles: north and south, or positive and negative, in a familiar arrangement called a "dipole." But researchers are increasingly uncovering more complex forms of magnetism.
Recent advances in quantum mechanics have revealed higher orders of magnetism, including an "octupolar order" in which a pattern of particles arranged in a crystalline structure within a material behaves as if it has eight magnetic poles rather than the familiar two. However, detecting and controlling these elusive magnetic states is a significant challenge.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in