The quantum optics of media.

Area of Science:

• Quantum optics
• Electromagnetism in dielectrics

Background:

• Quantum theory of light in real media necessitates considering physical features like dispersion, losses, and interface effects.
• Near-transparent dielectrics present unique challenges for light propagation and radiative processes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the quantization of light within dielectric media.
• To investigate the impact of quantization on radiative processes and light propagation.
• To resolve the Abraham-Minkowski dilemma concerning optical forces and momentum in media.

Main Methods:

• Review of theoretical frameworks for quantized light in dielectrics.
• Analysis of optical forces and momentum within dielectric media.
• Theoretical resolution of the Abraham-Minkowski dilemma.

Main Results:

• Quantization of light in dielectrics affects radiative processes and propagation.
• Identified two distinct optical force densities in a medium.
• Established the necessity of two distinct optical momenta, resolving the Abraham-Minkowski dilemma.

Conclusions:

• The quantum theory of light in dielectrics requires careful consideration of material properties.
• The resolution of the Abraham-Minkowski dilemma provides a unified understanding of optical momentum and forces.