Quantum metric nonlinear spin-orbit torque enhanced by topological bands

Abstract

Effects manifesting quantum geometry have been a focus of physics research. Here, we reveal that quantum metric plays a crucial role in nonlinear electric spin response, leading to a quantum metric spin–orbit torque. We argue that enhanced quantum metric can occur at band (anti)crossings, so the nonlinear torque could be amplified in topological metals with nodal features close to Fermi level. By applying our theory to magnetic Kane–Mele model and monolayer CrSBr, which feature nodal lines and Weyl points, we demonstrate that the quantum metric torque dominates the response, and its magnitude is significantly enhanced by topological band structures, which even surpasses the previously reported linear torques and is sufficient to drive magnetic switching by itself.