Unruh effect inside a cylindrical cavity

Abstract: The Unruh effect states that the transition rates of a uniformly accelerated detector in the inertial vacuum have a thermal character at a temperature proportional to the detector's acceleration. Numerous proposals studying different properties of the accelerated detector under varied settings still await fruition as the signal of interest is generally very weak.

We will discuss the Unruh effect inside a cylindrical cavity, with special emphasis on strategies that might help us resolve it better. We will discuss the transition rates and radiative energy shift of an atom uniformly accelerated along the axis of the cavity. We will argue that the requirement of large acceleration for an appreciable non-inertial contribution to these properties can be traded for a better precision in cavity design. We will conclude with a brief discussion on the possibility of selective super-radiant enhancement of the Unruh signal.

general relativity and quantum cosmologyquantum physics

Audience: advanced learners

( video )

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Tricontinental Quantum Fundamentals Seminar

Series comments: The Tricontinental Quantum Fundamentals Seminar (3C-QFS) is an online seminar series connecting researchers from Australia, Europe, and America. Our goal is to facilitate discussion between the three continents and bring together those working on foundational topics in relativistic quantum physics, covering but not limited to:

• Measurement, localisation, and causality in relativistic quantum theory
• Energy conditions and quantum inequalities
• Non-locality and observer-dependence of entanglement
• Quantum reference frames and symmetries in quantum theory
• Holography, AdS/CFT, and analogue gravity

For 3C-QFS, we wish to foster an inclusive community and promote open discussion by encouraging a casual atmosphere during the seminars.

The seminars are held online via Zoom, consisting of 40-60 minute talks followed by additional time for questions. We meet every three weeks on Tuesday, alternating between two times in order to connect research communities across two of the three continents.

For those unable to join the seminars live, talks are recorded and hosted on the 3C-QFS YouTube channel.

The seminar series is primarily for students and academics active in the foundations of physics. To sign up for the mailing list and join the seminars live, please complete the registration form on the 3C-QFS website.

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