Abstract
The reversal of the free layer of a spin-valve with crossed anisotropy was studied by transmission Lorentz electron microscopy. In situ magnetizing experiments were carried out using the Fresnel imaging mode for various applied field orientations. Reversal could be by simple magnetization rotation or by rotation combined with complex domain processes. Asymmetric magnetization reversals whereby the modes on the outward and return paths of a magnetization cycle were seen on occasion. Insight into why the reversal mode varied in the way it did was obtained using a modified Stoner–Wohlfarth model. The model provided a good description of the various modes and there was reasonable agreement between predicted and observed fields at which key stages of the reversals took place. Even though a single variable parameter model of the kind used cannot describe a multi-domain state, its use in inferring the nature of domain configurations that arise is discussed as are its other strengths and weaknesses.
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