Quantum friction for a scalar model: spatial dependence and higher orders

TL;DR

This paper investigates quantum friction in a scalar atom-plane model using perturbation theory, analyzing spatial and higher-order effects relevant for nanodevice design.

Contribution

It introduces a perturbative method to evaluate spatially dependent transition amplitudes for quantum friction in a scalar model.

Findings

Spatial distribution of excitation probabilities mapped

Higher-order effects analyzed

Potential implications for nanodevice engineering

Abstract

We use a perturbative approach to evaluate transition amplitudes corresponding to quantum friction, for a scalar model describing an atom which moves at a constant velocity, close to a material plane. In particular, we present results on the probability density per unit time of exciting degrees of freedom on specific regions of the plane. This allows one to know spatial features of the effect which could have practical relevance, for instance, for the design of nanodevices.