Sum-over-modes approach to the Casimir effect in dissipative systems

ORAL

Abstract

We show that, within the open-system framework, the sum-over-modes approach \`{a} la Casimir leads to the Lifshitz formula for the Casimir free energy. A general result applicable to arbitrary geometries is obtained through the use of Ford, Lewis, {\&} O'Connell's remarkable formula. Additionally, we address the possibility for obtaining the Casimir energy as a sum over complex ``modes.'' We show in this case that the standard sum-over-modes formula must be suitably generalized to avert unphysical complex energies.

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Authors

  • Francesco Intravaia

    Theoretical Division, MS B213, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, NM 87545, USA

  • Ryan Behunin

    Los Alamos National Laboratory, Theoretical Division, MS B213, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, NM 87545, USA