Work

Wading through the void: Exploring quantum friction and nonequilibrium fluctuations

Year: 2022

Type: article

Abstract: When two or more objects move relative to one another in vacuum, they experience a drag force, which, at zero temperature, usually goes under the name of quantum friction. This contactless non-conservative interaction is mediated by the fluctuations of the material-modified quantum electrodynamic vacuum and, hence, is purely quantum in nature. Numerous investigations have revealed the richness of the mechanisms at work, thereby stimulating novel theoretical and experimental approaches and identifying challenges and opportunities. In this Perspective, we provide an overview of the physics surrounding quantum friction and a perspective on recent developments.

Source: APL Photonics

DOI: 10.1063/5.0083067

Authors: D. Reiche, F. Intravaia, K. Busch

Institutions: Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Max-Born-Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy

Language: English

Topic: Quantum Electrodynamics and Casimir Effect

Subfield: Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics

Field: Physics and Astronomy

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,750

Funder: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft