Spin-wave dispersion in orbitally ordered La1/2Sr3/2MnO4.

The magnon dispersion in the charge, orbital, and spin ordered phase in La1/2Sr3/2MnO4 has been studied by means of inelastic neutron scattering. We find excellent agreement with a magnetic interaction model based on the CE-type superstructure. The magnetic excitations are dominated by ferromagnetic exchange parameters revealing a nearly one-dimensional character at high energies. The strong ferromagnetic interaction in the charge or orbital ordered phase appears to be essential for the capability of manganites to switch between metallic and insulating phases.