Abstract
In this work, we consider a Casimir apparatus that is put into free fall (e.g., falling into a black hole). Working in 1+1D, we find that two main effects occur: First, the Casimir energy density experiences a tidal effect where negative energy is pushed toward the plates and the resulting force experienced by the plates is increased. Second, the process of falling is inherently nonequilibrium and we treat it as such, demonstrating that the Casimir energy density moves back and forth between the plates after being "dropped,'' with the force modulating in synchrony. In this way, the Casimir energy behaves as a classical liquid might, putting (negative) pressure on the walls as it moves about in its container. In particular, we consider this in the context of a black hole and the multiple vacua that can be achieved outside of the apparatus.
Highlights
The Casimir effect in flat space causes two distinct objects to attract with a pressure that is diminished as the objects recede
The curvature term is so if we look at the pressure on plate B in Eq (94) due to the curvature, the inward force between the plates and the Casimir energy (88) increase as the plates fall into the black hole
Using properties of free conformal field theory, we have been able to show how the Casimir force and energy change on plates that are suddenly put into free fall
Summary
The Casimir effect in flat space causes two distinct objects (such as plates, as Casimir originally considered [1]) to attract with a pressure that is diminished as the objects recede (see, e.g., [2]). The most general situation combines three ingredients: space-time curvature (possibly timedependent), moving boundaries (causing the particle creation commonly known as dynamical Casimir effect), and a cavity of finite size (creating the vacuum energy that generalizes the true, static Casimir effect). While the total Casimir energy is less than in free space in magnitude, the pressure on the plates increases It is in direct analogy with particles; this analogy does break down when we consider that particle number is not conserved and, quite generally, moving plates will create excitations that will contribute to the energy density. Those dynamical terms are identified and characterized, as we will see. Throughout this work, we use the standard conventions ħ 1⁄4 1 1⁄4 c, and for consistency with the 1970s literature the metric signature is (þ−) (i.e., the minus sign is associated with the spatial dimension)
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
