Spontaneous symmetry breaking and circulation by optically bound microparticle chains in Gaussian beam traps

Taylor, J.M. and Love, G.D. (2009) Spontaneous symmetry breaking and circulation by optically bound microparticle chains in Gaussian beam traps. Physical Review A: Atomic, Molecular and Optical Physics, 80(5), 053808-1. (doi: 10.1103/PhysRevA.80.053808)

Abstract

It has been known for some time that simple “optically bound” chains of dielectric microparticles can form in a counter propagating Gaussian beam optical trap. Here we report experimental observations of more complex trapped states, which do not reflect the underlying symmetry of the optical beam trap they are confined in. We discuss both stationary off-axis trapping and dynamic motion. We confirm the results using a rigorous Mie scattering model and also give a physical explanation for these static and dynamic off-axis trapped states.

• Item Type: Articles
• Additional Information: This paper was published in Optics Express and is made available as an electronic reprint with the permission of OSA. The paper can be found at the following URL on the OSA website: http://dx.doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevA.80.053808. Systematic or multiple reproduction or distribution to multiple locations via electronic or other means is prohibited and is subject to penalties under law.
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Taylor, Dr Jonathan
• Authors: Taylor, J.M., and Love, G.D.
• College/School: College of Science and Engineering > School of Physics and Astronomy
• Journal Name: Physical Review A: Atomic, Molecular and Optical Physics
• Publisher: American Physical Society
• ISSN: 1050-2947
• ISSN (Online): 1094-1622
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2009 American Physical Society
• First Published: First published in Physical Review A 80(5):053808-01-053808-06
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced in accordance with the copyright policy of the publisher