Imprinting magnetic information in manganites with x rays.

The effect of x rays on an orbital and charge ordered epitaxial film of a ${\mathrm{Pr}}_{0.5}{\mathrm{Ca}}_{0.5}{\mathrm{MnO}}_{3}$ is presented. As the film is exposed to x rays, the antiferromagnetic response increases and concomitantly the conductivity of the film improve. These results are discussed in terms of a persistent x-ray induced doping, leading to a modification of the magnetic structure. This effect allows writing electronic and magnetic information in the film and represents a novel way of manipulating magnetism.