Comment on "Observation of a push force on the end face of a nanometer silica filament exerted by outgoing light," Phys. Rev. Lett. 101, 243601 (2008)

TL;DR

This paper critically examines a recent experiment on light-induced deformations in silica nano-fibers, arguing that the interpretation of photon momentum and the Abraham-Minkowski controversy is premature without comprehensive force calculations.

Contribution

The paper provides a detailed critique emphasizing the need for complete electromagnetic and mechanical force analysis before claiming resolution of the photon momentum controversy.

Findings

Highlights the importance of Lorentz force calculations in interpreting nano-fiber experiments

Argues that current interpretations do not fully account for all forces involved

Suggests that the Abraham-Minkowski controversy remains unresolved

Abstract

In a recent paper, W. She, J. Yu and R. Feng reported the slight deformations observed upon transmission of a light pulse through a fairly short length of a silica glass nano-fiber. Relating the shape and magnitude of these deformations to the momentum of the light pulse both inside and outside the fiber, these authors concluded that, within the fiber, the photons carry the Abraham momentum. In my view, the authors' claim that they have resolved the Abraham-Minkowski controversy surrounding the momentum of photons inside dielectric media is premature. A correct interpretation of the experiments of She et al requires precise calculations that would properly account not only for the electromagnetic momentum (both inside and outside the fiber) but also for the Lorentz force exerted on the fiber by the light pulse in its entire path through this nano-waveguide.