Spin-flip transitions induced by time-dependent electric fields in surfaces with strong spin-orbit interaction

Abstract

We present a comprehensive theoretical investigation of the light absorption rate at a Pb/Ge(111)-β√3×√3R30° surface with strong spin-orbit coupling. Our calculations show that electron spin-flip transitions cause as much as 6% of the total light absorption, representing 1 order of magnitude enhancement over Rashba-like systems. Thus, we demonstrate that a substantial part of the light irradiating this nominally nonmagnetic surface is attenuated in spin-flip processes. Remarkably, the spin-flip transition probability is structured in well-defined hot spots within the Brillouin zone, where the electron spin experiences a sudden 90° rotation. This mechanism offers the possibility of an experimental approach to the spin-orbit phenomena by optical means. © 2012 American Physical Society.