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Interaction between an Optically Levitated Nanoparticle and Its Thermal Image: Internal Thermometry via Displacement
Thomas Agrenius1, Carlos Gonzalez-Ballestero1, Patrick Maurer1
1Institute for Quantum Optics and Quantum Information of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria and Institute for Theoretical Physics, University of Innsbruck, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria.
Physical Review Letters
|March 17, 2023
Summary
We propose a method to measure nanoparticle-surface interactions using optically levitated nanoparticles. This technique can function as an internal thermometer for levitated nanoparticles, crucial for quantum experiments.
Area of Science:
- Quantum physics
- Optomechanics
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Optically levitated nanoparticles are key systems for quantum mechanics research.
- Understanding nanoparticle internal physics is vital for quantum superposition experiments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose and analyze an experiment for measuring nanoparticle-surface interactions.
- To develop a method for internal thermometry of levitated nanoparticles.
Main Methods:
- Using displacement sensing of an optically levitated nanoparticle.
- Employing a surface transparent to trapping light but reflective to infrared radiation.
- Modulating surface reflectivity over time.
Main Results:
- The experiment measures induced dipole-dipole interaction between nanoparticle and its thermal image.
- The interaction force is significantly stronger than the thermal gradient force.
- The force depends on nanoparticle internal temperature at distances >2 micrometers.
Conclusions:
- The proposed method is experimentally feasible for internal thermometry of levitated nanoparticles in ultrahigh vacuum.
- This technique provides crucial insights into decoherence limitations in quantum state preparation.
