Abstract
We reconsider the recently proposed nonlinear quantum electrodynamics effect of quantum reflection of photons off an inhomogeneous strong-field region. We present new results for strong fields varying both in space and time. While such configurations can give rise to new effects such as frequency mixing, estimated reflection rates based on previous one-dimensional studies are corroborated. On a conceptual level, we critically re-examine the validity regime of the conventional locally-constant-field approximation and identify kinematic configurations which can be treated reliably. Our results further underline the discovery potential of quantum reflection as a new signature of the nonlinearity of the quantum vacuum.
Highlights
The vacuum of quantum electrodynamics (QED) can be considered as permeated by virtual electron–positron fluctuations which probe typical distances of the order of the electron Compton wavelength λc = 1 m and exist for typical time scales of the order of the Compton time τc = 1 m
In a recent paper [6], we proposed quantum reflection as a new signature of quantum vacuum nonlinearity in the presence of strong electromagnetic fields
In [6] we have introduced and exemplified quantum reflection in the case of a static one-dimensional and purely magnetic field inhomogeneity as a prospective and promising candidate for an all-optical probe of quantum vacuum nonlinearity
Summary
Quantum reflection of photons off spatio-temporal electromagnetic field inhomogeneities. Reflection of photons off an inhomogeneous strong-field region. Any further distribution of fields varying both in space and time. While such configurations can give rise to new effects such as this work must maintain attribution to the frequency mixing, estimated reflection rates based on previous one-dimensional studies are author(s) and the title of corroborated. We critically re-examine the validity regime of the conventional the work, journal citation and DOI. Article funded locally-constant-field approximation and identify kinematic configurations which can be treated by SCOAP3. Our results further underline the discovery potential of quantum reflection as a new signature of the nonlinearity of the quantum vacuum
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
