Mirror-image-induced magnetic modes

ACS Nano. 2013 Jan 22;7(1):664-8. doi: 10.1021/nn304855t. Epub 2012 Dec 5.

Abstract

Reflection in a mirror changes the handedness of the real world, and right-handed objects turn left-handed and vice versa (M. Gardner, The Ambidextrous Universe, Penguin Books, 1964). Also, we learn from electromagnetism textbooks that a flat metallic mirror transforms an electric charge into a virtual opposite charge. Consequently, the mirror image of a magnet is another parallel virtual magnet as the mirror image changes both the charge sign and the curl handedness. Here we report the dramatic modification in the optical response of a silicon nanocavity induced by the interaction with its image through a flat metallic mirror. The system of real and virtual dipoles can be interpreted as an effective magnetic dipole responsible for a strong enhancement of the cavity scattering cross section.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Computer Simulation
  • Lenses*
  • Magnetic Fields
  • Models, Theoretical*
  • Nanostructures / chemistry*
  • Silicon / chemistry*

Substances

  • Silicon