Cerenkov Radiation in Photonic Crystals
Abstract
In a conventional material, the coherent Cerenkov radiation due to a moving charged particle is associated with a velocity threshold, a forward-pointing radiation cone, and a forward direction of emission. We describe different behavior for the Cerenkov radiation in a photonic crystal. In particular, this radiation is intrinsically coupled with transition radiation and is observable without any threshold. Within one particle-velocity range, we found a radiation pattern with a backward-pointing radiation cone. In another velocity range, backward-propagating Cerenkov radiation can be expected. Potential applications include velocity-sensitive particle detection and radiation generation at selectable frequencies.
- Publication:
-
Science
- Pub Date:
- January 2003
- DOI:
- 10.1126/science.1079549
- Bibcode:
- 2003Sci...299..368L
- Keywords:
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- PHYSICS