Landmark find has magnetic appeal

A fundamental problem that has long puzzled scientists has been solved after more than 70 years. An international team of researchers has discovered a subtle electronic effect in magnetite, the most magnetic of all naturally occurring minerals. The effect causes a dramatic change to how this material conducts electricity at very low temperatures. The discovery gives new insight into the mineral in which magnetism was discovered, and it may enable magnetite and similar materials to be exploited in new ways. Ancient knowledge. Magnetite's properties have been known for more than 2000 years and gave rise to the original concepts of magnets and magnetism. The mineral has formed the basis for decades of research into magnetic recording and information storage materials.