Physicists have confirmed a new form of magnetism in a crystal. The material is called Co1/4TaSe2. The finding was published in Nature Communications.

The work was led by Madhab Neupane at the University of Central Florida. The team studied how electrons behave inside the crystal.

The new state is called altermagnetism. It sits between ferromagnetism and antiferromagnetism. It was predicted by theory but rarely seen in real materials.

Altermagnets could make faster computer memory. They combine the best features of both known magnet types.

The team used advanced X-ray tools to map the crystal. They found the electron spins arranged in a new pattern.

Experts say the discovery opens a new field of study. More materials with this property may now be found.

The research may lead to low-power electronics. Tech firms are watching the field closely.

More materials with this property may now be found. Researchers will test related crystals next. The finding could reshape magnetic computing.