Quantum Manipulation via Atomic-Scale Magnetoelectric Effects

Magnetoelectric effects at the atomic scale are demonstrated to afford unique functionality. This is shown explicitly for a quantum corral defined by a wall of magnetic atoms on a metal surface where spin–orbit coupling is observable. We show these magnetoelectric effects allow one to control the properties of systems placed inside the corral as well as their electronic signatures; they provide powerful alternative tools for probing electronic properties at the atomic scale.