Heidelberg 2015 – scientific programme

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Q: Fachverband Quantenoptik und Photonik

Q 34: Quantum Effects: QED I

Q 34.3: Talk

Wednesday, March 25, 2015, 11:45–12:00, B/SR

Influence of dissipation on two-atom dispersion interactions — •Pablo Barcellona and Stefan Yoshi Buhmann — Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany

We consider the dispersion interaction between two neutral, ground-state atoms at zero and finite temperature by means of a dynamical approach. Our result differs from the previous ones obtained with time-independent perturbation theory because it correctly accounts for the influence of dissipation via the atomic decay rates. Modern measurements of Casimir force seem to suggest a suppressed influence of dissipation. Our new result shows similar features and can hence help resolve the Drude-plasma debate.

We also consider the interaction between a ground-state atom and an excited atom. There are discordant results in the literature for the retarded potential: one oscillating and one monotonous. Our dynamical result uniquely leads to the oscillating result when taking into account the decay rates.