North-West- or South-East-Coupling (IMAGE) Paul Scherrer Institute Caption If a group of cobalt atoms aligns to the North or South (red), the neighbouring cobalt atoms align to the West or East (blue). The orientation of the neighbouring atoms is within the plane. This interaction requires sandwiching of the cobalt layer between a platinum layer (below, beige) and an aluminium oxide layer (above, not shown here). Credit Paul Scherrer Institute/Zhaochu Luo Usage Restrictions All media, such as photos, graphics and videos may only be used in the editorial context of these contents, naming the author. Archiving of this media is not permitted. License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.