We are able to continuously change the direction of polarization of spin accumulation in a nonmagnetic metal by varying the currents injected by two ferromagnetic spin injectors. From measurements made at a distance from the injection area, we find a $\cos \varphi$ variation of the spin signal. This confirms that the angle of polarization of the nonlocal spin polarization with respect to the magnetization of the fixed spin detector is continuously varied as we change the injection currents. We give an explanation for the origin of this simple $\cos \varphi$ variation of the spin signal.

• Received 25 April 2007

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.99.166601