Learn about the 6 most common types of cavity optomechanics systems, including Fabry-Perot resonators and nanomechanical resonators, and their applications.
6 Most Common Types of Cavity Optomechanics Systems
Cavity optomechanics is a branch of physics that studies the interaction between light and mechanical motion. The field has gained immense popularity in the last decade, and the number of applications has been steadily increasing. Cavity optomechanics systems are used in a variety of fields, including quantum computing, precision measurements, and fundamental physics research. In this article, we will discuss the six most common types of cavity optomechanics systems.
1. Fabry-Perot Resonators
Fabry-Perot resonators are the most commonly used cavity optomechanics systems. They are composed of two parallel mirrors that reflect light back and forth between them. The mechanical motion occurs when one of the mirrors vibrates, which changes the distance between the two mirrors and, in turn, changes the resonant frequency of the cavity. Fabry-Perot resonators are used in precision measurements, such as displacement sensors, and in quantum optomechanical experiments.
2. Microtoroid Resonators
Microtoroid resonators are circular-shaped resonators made of a dielectric material, such as silica. They are typically a few microns in diameter and can support whispering gallery modes, which are high-Q resonances that travel along the perimeter of the toroid. The mechanical motion is induced when a force is applied to the surface of the resonator, causing it to vibrate. Microtoroid resonators are used in applications such as force sensors and cavity optomechanical transducers.
