Current and vortex statistics in microwave billiards

TL;DR

This paper investigates the statistical properties of probability densities, currents, and vortices in microwave billiards, confirming theoretical predictions through experimental measurements involving a ferrite insert and open billiard configurations.

Contribution

It provides the first comprehensive experimental validation of the random-superposition-of-plane-waves approach for microwave billiard statistics.

Findings

Distribution functions match theoretical predictions

Vortex pair correlation functions agree with models

Complete agreement with random wave approach

Abstract

Using the one-to-one correspondence between the Poynting vector in a microwave billiard and the probability current density in the corresponding quantum system probability densities and currents were studied in a microwave billiard with a ferrite insert as well as in an open billiard. Distribution functions were obtained for probability densities, currents and vorticities. In addition the vortex pair correlation function could be extracted. For all studied quantities a complete agreement with the predictions from the random-superposition-of-plane-waves approach was obtained.