Coherent forward scattering in 2D disordered systems

TL;DR

This paper investigates coherent forward scattering in 2D disordered systems, revealing its connection to wave confinement and Anderson localization through numerical and theoretical analysis.

Contribution

It provides a detailed analysis of the conditions under which coherent forward scattering indicates Anderson localization in 2D systems.

Findings

Coherent forward scattering appears as a peak in momentum distribution.

Confinement of the wave in finite regions is crucial for the effect.

The phenomenon can serve as a signature of Anderson localization.

Abstract

We present a detailed numerical and theoretical analysis of the recently discovered phenomenon of coherent forward scattering. This effect manifests itself as a macroscopic interference peak in the forward direction of the momentum distribution of a matter wave launched with finite velocity in a random potential. Focusing on the two-dimensional case, we show that coherent forward scattering generally arises due the confinement of the wave in a finite region of space, and explain under which conditions it can be seen as a genuine signature of Anderson localization.