Magnetic ghosts and monopoles

Abstract

While the physics of equilibrium systems composed of many particles is well known, the interplay between small-scale physics and global properties is still a mystery for athermal systems. Non-trivial patterns and metastable states are often reached in those systems. We explored the various arrangements adopted by magnetic beads along chains and rings. Here, we show that it is possible to create mechanically stable defects in dipole arrangements keeping the memory of dipole frustration. Such defects, nicknamed "ghost junctions", seem to act as macroscopic magnetic monopoles, in a way reminiscent of spin ice systems.

submitted for publication; 5 pages, 4 figures, supplementary files can be obtained upon request