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The role of virtual photons in nanoscale photonics
Author(s) -
Andrews David L.,
Bradshaw David S.
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
annalen der physik
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.009
H-Index - 68
eISSN - 1521-3889
pISSN - 0003-3804
DOI - 10.1002/andp.201300219
Subject(s) - photon , virtual particle , photonics , nanophotonics , physics , casimir effect , quantum , quantum optics , nanoscopic scale , nanotechnology , engineering physics , optoelectronics , quantum mechanics , materials science
The fundamental theory of processes and properties associated with nanoscale photonics should properly account for the quantum nature of both the matter and the radiation field. A familiar example is the Casimir force, whose significant role in nanoelectromechanical systems is widely recognised; the correct representation invokes the creation of short‐lived virtual photons from the vacuum. In fact, there is an extensive range of nanophotonic interactions in which virtual photon exchange plays a vital role, mediating the coupling between particles. This review surveys recent theory and applications, also exhibiting novel insights into key electrodynamic mechanisms. Examples are numerous and include: laser‐induced inter‐particle forces known as optical binding; non‐parametric frequency‐conversion processes especially in rare‐earth doped materials; light‐harvesting polymer materials that involve electronic energy transfer between their constituent chromophores. An assessment of these and the latest prospective applications concludes with a view on future directions of research.