On spin evolution in a time-dependent magnetic field: Post-adiabatic corrections and geometric phases

We examine both quantum and classical versions of the problem of spin evolution in a slowly varying magnetic field. Main attention is given to the first- and second-order adiabatic corrections in the case of in-plane variations of the magnetic field. While the first-order correction relates to the usual adiabatic Berry phase and Coriolis-type lateral deflection of the spin, the second-order correction is shown to be responsible for the next-order geometric phase and in-plain deflection. A comparison between different approaches, including the exact (non-adiabatic) geometric phase, is presented. (C) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.