Queries about input and output files, running specific calculations, etc.
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IBRAHIM
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#1
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by IBRAHIM » Tue Dec 09, 2025 7:30 am
Dear All,
We would like to start with non-spin-polarized calculations for metal clusters with an odd number of electrons.
1- Is it possible to perform non-spin-polarized calculations for metal clusters containing an odd number of electrons in VASP?
2- What happens if MAGMOM is specified in the INCAR while running non-spin-polarized calculations (ISPIN=1)?
Many thanks in advance,
Ibrahim
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jonathan_lahnsteiner2
- Global Moderator

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#2
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by jonathan_lahnsteiner2 » Wed Dec 10, 2025 2:31 pm
Dear
1) It is not physically meaningful to perform non-spin-polarized calculations for metal clusters with an odd number of electrons in VASP. For an odd number of electrons, there will always be at least one unpaired electron, resulting in a net spin. A non-spin-polarized calculation constrains all electron spins to be paired, which is not possible for odd-electron systems. Therefore, spin-polarized calculations for clusters with an odd number of electrons should be used in VASP to properly account for the correct electronic structure.
2) MAGMOM is ignored for non-spin polarized calculations.
All the best Jonathan