The force acting on a polarizable nanoparticle in the quantized electromagnetic field

TL;DR

This paper derives a unified formula for the force on a polarizable nanoparticle in any quantum electromagnetic field state, encompassing known forces like van der Waals and frictional forces.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive, unified expression for the force on a nanoparticle in arbitrary quantum electromagnetic fields, integrating previous specific cases.

Findings

Unified formula for electromagnetic forces on nanoparticles

Encompasses van der Waals and frictional forces

Applicable to any quantum state of the field

Abstract

In this letter we derive an expression for the force acting on a small (still macroscopic) particle in the field of the quantized electromagnetic radiation in any arbitrary quantum state. This result unifies in one simple formula all known expressions for the forces (i.e. van der Waals or frictional) acting on a small particle.