Magnetic resonance usually is detected inductively, using resonant circuits. Recent experiments have detected magnetic resonance mechanically, using the magnetic force acting between a sample and a nearby force microscope cantilever. This article compares the sensitivity of inductive and mechanical methods for detecting magnetic resonance. We show that, as mechanical oscillators are made smaller, their ability to detect magnetic resonance signals improves, such that existing force microscope cantilevers provide a viable alternative to inductive methods for detecting magnetic resonance.

• Received 21 December 1992

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.70.3506