Optomechanical coupling between a moving dielectric sphere and radiation fields: a Lagrangian-Hamiltonian formalism

We present a Lagrangian-Hamiltonian formalism of a moving dielectric sphere interacting with radiation fields. By including the interaction up to the first order in the speed of the sphere, we derive the Hamiltonian and perform quantization of both the field and the mechanical motion of the sphere. In particular, we show how independent degrees of freedom can be consistently identified under the generalized radiation gauge via instantaneous mode projection. Our Hamiltonian indicates the form of coupling due to velocity-dependent interactions beyond adiabatic approximation. In addition, the Hamiltonian predicts that a geometrical quantum phase can be gained by the sphere moving in a light field.

H. K. Cheung, C. K. Law · 2012