Merging Skyrmions (IMAGE) Technical University of Munich (TUM) Caption This illustration depicts the merging of two magnetic vortices, so-called skyrmions, in the magnetic structure of a material. The point at which the vortices merge displays the properties of an emergent magnetic monopole. When the monopole moves along the direction of the vortices, a skyrmion is created or destroyed. Credit Image by C. Schuette, copyright University of Cologne Usage Restrictions This image may be freely used, with copyright noted, in coverage of this research news. 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.