Correlation-mediated processes for electron-induced switching between Néel states of Fe antiferromagnetic chains. 
The controlled switching between two quasistable Néel states in adsorbed antiferromagnetic Fe chains has recently been achieved by Loth et al. [ Science 335, 196 (2012)] using tunneling electrons from an STM tip.  In order to rationalize their data, we evaluate the rate of tunneling electron-induced switching between the Néel states.  Good agreement is found with the experiment, permitting us to identify three switching mechanisms: (i) low STM voltage direct electron-induced transitions, (ii) intermediate STM voltage switching via spin-wave-like excitation, and (iii) high STM voltage transitions mediated by domain-wall formation.  Spin correlations in the antiferromagnetic chains are the switching driving force, leading to a marked chain-size dependence.