Revealing magnetic mysteries: Breakthrough builds better single molecule magnets

Scientists from the University of Ottawa have invented a unique method to create better molecule-based magnets, known as single-molecule magnets (SMMs). This synthetic tour de force has resulted in a two-coordinate lanthanide complex which has magnet-like properties that are intrinsic to the molecule itself. This discovery opens the door to high-density hard disks, quantum computing applications, and the creation of faster and more compact memory devices.