The Current Spin on Manganites

The manganites are pseudo-cubic oxides of manganese that show extremes of functional behavior. Diverse magnetic and electronic phases coexist on a wide range of length scales even within single crystals. This coexistence demonstrates a complexity that inspires ever deeper study. Yet even the basic nature of the coexisting phases remains controversial. Can the ferromagnetic metallic phase provide fully spin-polarized electrons for spin electronics? Does the superlattice in the highly insulating phase represent charge order? Here we highlight recent results that demonstrate a coexistence of opinions about a field in rude health.