Quantum fluctuations of radiation pressure

Chun-Hsien Wu and L. H. Ford
Phys. Rev. D 64, 045010 – Published 23 July 2001
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Abstract

Quantum fluctuations of electromagnetic radiation pressure are discussed. We use an approach based on the quantum stress tensor to calculate the fluctuations in velocity and position of a mirror subjected to electromagnetic radiation. Our approach reveals that radiation pressure fluctuations in the case of a coherent state are due to a cross term between vacuum and state dependent terms in a stress tensor operator product. Thus observation of these fluctuations would entail experimental confirmation of this cross term. We first analyze the pressure fluctuations on a single, perfectly reflecting mirror, and then study the case of an interferometer. This involves a study of the effects of multiple bounces in one arm, as well as the correlations of the pressure fluctuations between arms of the interferometer. In all cases, our results are consistent with those previously obtained by Caves using different methods. We argue that the agreement between the different methods supports the reality of the cross term and justifies the methods used in its evaluation.

  • Received 28 December 2000

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevD.64.045010

©2001 American Physical Society

Authors & Affiliations

Chun-Hsien Wu* and L. H. Ford

  • Institute of Cosmology, Department of Physics and Astronomy, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts 02155

  • *Email address: wu@cosmos.phy.tufts.edu
  • Email address: ford@cosmos.phy.tufts.edu

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Issue

Vol. 64, Iss. 4 — 15 August 2001

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