Collective oscillations in optical matter

TL;DR

This paper investigates collective oscillations in arrays of atoms and nanoparticles trapped in optical lattices, analyzing their stability and potential for applications in quantum information and signal processing.

Contribution

It introduces the fundamental concepts of dynamical response in optical matter and explores collective oscillations across various array configurations.

Findings

Arrays can sustain collective oscillations proportional to light field strength

Spectrum analysis reveals mechanical stability of the arrays

Proposes experimental setups for realizing these systems

Abstract

Atom and nanoparticle arrays trapped in optical lattices are shown to be capable of sustaining collective oscillations of frequency proportional to the strength of the external light field. The spectrum of these oscillations determines the mechanical stability of the arrays. This phenomenon is studied for dimers, strings, and two-dimensional planar arrays. Laterally confined particles free to move along an optical channel are also considered as an example of collective motion in partially-confined systems. The fundamental concepts of dynamical response in optical matter introduced here constitute the basis for potential applications to quantum information technology and signal processing. Experimental realizations of these systems are proposed.