Current-induced spin dynamics in spin-valve structures

The Landau-Lifshitz-Gilbert equation for the magnetization dynamics, extended by including the torque due to spin-transfer from conduction electrons, is used to study current-induced magnetic switching and stationary precessional modes. The spin torque is described in terms of a macroscopic model based on the classical spin diffusion equations and relevant boundary conditions. The approach allows to investigate current-driven switching, in particular the switching time and the frequency of the associated magnetoresistance signal in the precessional regime. (c) 2006 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.