Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 24, 2026
07:45
Quasi-light Storage for Optical Data Packets
Published on: February 6, 2014
10.1K
Superfluid light in bulk nonlinear media.
1INO-CNR BEC Center and Dipartimento di Fisica , Università di Trento , via Sommarive 14, Povo 38123, Italy.
Proceedings. Mathematical, Physical, and Engineering Sciences
|September 9, 2014
Summary
This study reveals how light propagation in nonlinear media can be described using fluid dynamics, analogous to superfluids. Researchers observed superfluid phenomena like sound waves, opening doors for analogue gravity models.
Area of Science:
- Nonlinear optics
- Fluid dynamics
- Condensed matter physics
Background:
- The paraxial approximation is crucial for understanding light propagation.
- Kerr nonlinear media exhibit unique optical properties.
- Superfluidity in quantum systems is described by the Gross-Pitaevskii equation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a hydrodynamic description of light propagation in bulk Kerr nonlinear media.
- To discuss the collective dynamics of a 'fluid of light'.
- To highlight experimental observations of superfluidity and explore analogue gravity models.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing the paraxial approximation to derive a wave equation.
- Drawing analogies to the Gross-Pitaevskii equation for superfluids.
- Reviewing experimental observations of light-fluid dynamics.
Main Results:
- A hydrodynamic description for light propagation in nonlinear media is established.
- Bogoliubov sound waves were generated and observed in the 'fluid of light'.
- Experimentally accessible manifestations of superfluidity were identified.
Conclusions:
- Light propagation in Kerr media exhibits superfluid-like behavior.
- The 'fluid of light' offers a platform for studying collective dynamics.
- This research provides a foundation for analogue gravity models.
More Related Videos
09:43Interfacial Molecular-level Structures of Polymers and Biomacromolecules Revealed via Sum Frequency Generation Vibrational Spectroscopy
Published on: August 13, 2019
8.5K
11:08Fabrication And Characterization Of Photonic Crystal Slow Light Waveguides And Cavities
Published on: November 30, 2012
18.7K
Related Concept Videos
01:20Characteristics of Fluids
7.3K
When a force is applied parallel to the top surface of a solid, it resists the applied force due to the internal frictional forces between the layers of the solid known as shearing resistance. However, when the force is removed, the shearing forces restore the original shape of the solid. Other deformation forces also cause temporary changes in shape if the forces are not beyond a threshold magnitude. Solids tend to retain their shape, making the study of their rest and motion easier. Beyond...
7.3K
01:31Characteristics of Fluids
1.3K
Fluids differ from solids primarily in their molecular structure and stress response. Solids have tightly packed molecules with strong intermolecular forces, maintaining their shape and resisting deformation. In contrast, fluids have molecules spaced farther apart with weaker forces, allowing them to flow and deform easily.
Fluids, which include both liquids and gases, are substances that deform continuously under shearing stress. For example, water and oil are liquids with molecules that can...
Fluids, which include both liquids and gases, are substances that deform continuously under shearing stress. For example, water and oil are liquids with molecules that can...
1.3K
01:27Types of Fluids
1.2K
Fluids can be classified into Newtonian and non-Newtonian fluids based on their response to shear stress. Newtonian fluids have a linear relationship between shear stress and the shear strain rate, following Newton's law of viscosity. Their viscosity remains constant regardless of the shear rate, making their behavior predictable and easier to analyze. Common examples include water, air, oil, and gasoline.
In contrast, non-Newtonian fluids do not follow Newton's law of viscosity, and...
In contrast, non-Newtonian fluids do not follow Newton's law of viscosity, and...
1.2K
01:34The Fluid Mosaic Model
156.9K
The fluid mosaic model was first proposed as a visual representation of research observations. The model comprises the composition and dynamics of membranes and serves as a foundation for future membrane-related studies. The model depicts the structure of the plasma membrane with a variety of components, which include phospholipids, proteins, and carbohydrates. These integral molecules are loosely bound, defining the cell’s border and providing fluidity for optimal function.
156.9K
01:15Dimensionless Groups in Fluid Mechanics
1000
Dimensionless groups in fluid mechanics provide simplified ratios that help analyze fluid behavior without relying on specific units. The Reynolds number (Re), which represents the ratio of inertial to viscous forces, distinguishes between laminar and turbulent flows, making it essential in the design of pipelines and aerodynamic surfaces. The Froude number (Fr), the ratio of inertial to gravitational forces, is particularly useful in predicting wave formation and hydraulic jumps in...
1000
01:19Viscosity of Fluid
2.2K
Viscosity measures the resistance a fluid offers to flow and deformation. It results from internal friction between layers of fluid moving relative to one another. Dynamic viscosity, denoted by the Greek letter mu (μ), quantifies the force needed to move one fluid layer over another. For Newtonian fluids like water and air, the relationship between the shearing stress and the rate of shearing strain is linear, meaning their viscosity remains constant regardless of the applied stress.
2.2K