Light-matter interaction: conversion of optical energy and momentum to mechanical vibrations and phonons

Masud Mansuripur

doi:10.1117/12.2218232

13 February 2016 Light-matter interaction: conversion of optical energy and momentum to mechanical vibrations and phonons

Masud Mansuripur

Author Affiliations +

Proceedings Volume 9755, Quantum Sensing and Nano Electronics and Photonics XIII; 97552I (2016) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2218232
Event: SPIE OPTO, 2016, San Francisco, California, United States

Abstract

Reflection, refraction, and absorption of light by material media are, in general, accompanied by a transfer of optical energy and momentum to the media. Consequently, the eigen-modes of mechanical vibration (phonons) created in the process must distribute the acquired energy and momentum throughout the material medium. However, unlike photons, phonons do not carry momentum. What happens to the material medium in its interactions with light, therefore, requires careful consideration if the conservation laws are to be upheld. The present paper addresses some of the mechanisms by which the electromagnetic momentum of light is carried away by mechanical vibrations.

Citation Download Citation

Masud Mansuripur "Light-matter interaction: conversion of optical energy and momentum to mechanical vibrations and phonons", Proc. SPIE 9755, Quantum Sensing and Nano Electronics and Photonics XIII, 97552I (13 February 2016); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2218232

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