Momentum Transfer from Quantum Vacuum to Magnetoelectric Matter
Abstract
A recent publication [Phys. Rev. Lett. 92, 020404 (2004)PRLTAO0031-900710.1103/PhysRevLett.92.020404] raises the possibility of momentum transfer from zero-point quantum fluctuations to matter, controlled by applied electric and magnetic fields. We present a Lorentz-invariant description using field-theoretical regularization techniques. We find no momentum transfer for homogeneous media, but predict a very small transfer for a Casimir-type geometry.
- Publication:
-
Physical Review Letters
- Pub Date:
- April 2006
- DOI:
- 10.1103/PhysRevLett.96.130402
- Bibcode:
- 2006PhRvL..96m0402V
- Keywords:
-
- 03.50.De;
- 42.50.Nn;
- 42.50.Vk;
- Classical electromagnetism Maxwell equations;
- Quantum optical phenomena in absorbing dispersive and conducting media;
- Mechanical effects of light on atoms molecules electrons and ions