Physical foundations and basic properties of magnetic skyrmions

Magnetic skyrmions (or vortices) are spatially inhomogeneous spin textures localized in nanoscale cylindrical regions. Their small size and unique stability make skyrmions attractive for the study of spin topology and technologies wherein information is carried by the electron spin in addition to, or instead of, the electron charge. Despite advances in the synthesis of materials in which axisymmetric magnetic skyrmions can be stabilized and characterized, there has been relatively slow progress in elucidating the basic properties. This Perspective aims to bridge this gap by delivering a brief, accessible guide to the physical principles governing magnetic skyrmions. Magnetic skyrmions, two-dimensional nanometre-scale localized states, are promising candidates for new technological applications. This Perspective surveys the progress in this field and offers a brief, accessible guide to the basic physical principles of magnetic skyrmions.