One Dimensional(1D)-to-2D Crossover of Spin Correlations in the 3D Magnet ZnMn(2)O(4)

We report on the intriguing evolution of the dynamical spin correlations of the frustrated spinel ZnMn(2)O(4). Inelastic neutron scattering and magnetization studies reveal that the dynamical correlations at high temperatures are 1D. At lower temperature, these dynamical correlations become 2D. Surprisingly, the dynamical correlations condense into a quasi 2D Ising-like ordered state, making this a rare observation of two dimensional order on the spinel lattice. Remarkably, 3D ordering is not observed down to temperatures as low as 300 mK. This unprecedented dimensional crossover stems from frustrated exchange couplings due to the huge Jahn-Teller distortions around Mn(3+) ions on the spinel lattice.