Linear-response theory of spin Seebeck effect in ferromagnetic insulators

Hiroto Adachi, Jun-ichiro Ohe, Saburo Takahashi, Sadamichi Maekawa

Published 2010-10-12, updated 2011-03-30Version 2

We formulate a linear response theory of the spin Seebeck effect, i.e., a spin voltage generation from heat current flowing in a ferromagnet. Our approach focuses on the collective magnetic excitation of spins, i.e., magnons. We show that the linear-response formulation provides us with a qualitative as well as quantitative understanding of the spin Seebeck effect observed in a prototypical magnet, yttrium iron garnet.