A spin valve is a type of device that exploits the phenomenon of spin-dependent electrical resistance, which is related to the spin of electrons. It consists generally of two ferromagnetic layers separated by a non-magnetic metal or semiconductor layer. The key principle behind a spin valve is that the electrical resistance of the device changes depending on the relative magnetization orientations of the two ferromagnetic layers.
Basic component in spintronics, used in both giant magnetoresistance
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