Classical theory of mirror-mediated cooling

Abstract

We have calculated, using a classical approach, the frictional force on a polarisable particle which is illuminated with far-detuned light and coupled, via the dipole force, to its reflection. Established methods for cooling atoms with light require a closed optical transition; they rely on the atom to provide the necessary dissipation. A new breed of techniques is emerging in which particles and light are coupled using the dipole rather than the scattering force; for these, it is the light, not the particle, which provides dissipation. Examples include cavity-mediated cooling and the proposed mirror-mediated cooling. For these techniques, the only property required of the particle is that it be polarisable; specifically, there is no need for a closed optical transition. Potentially, we can achieve direct, optical cooling of molecules and even much larger structures, such as micro-cantilevers.