arXiv · 1112.5618
Relativistic Hall Effect
Abstract
We consider the relativistic deformation of quantum waves and mechanical bodies carrying intrinsic angular momentum (AM). When observed in a moving reference frame, the centroid of the object undergoes an AM-dependent transverse shift. This is the relativistic analogue of the spin Hall effect, which occurs in free space without any external fields. Remarkably, the shifts of the geometric and energy centroids differ by a factor of 2, and both centroids are crucial for the correct Lorentz transformations of the AM tensor. We examine manifestations of the relativistic Hall effect in quantum vortices, and mechanical flywheels, and also discuss various fundamental aspects of this phenomenon. The perfect agreement of quantum and relativistic approaches allows applications at strikingly different scales: from elementary spinning particles, through classical light, to rotating black-holes.
Explore related subjects
Keep this discovery
Explore connections, maps & timelines
Konstantin Y. Bliokh, Franco Nori. 2012-02-03. Relativistic Hall Effect. https://doi.org/10.1103/physrevlett.108.120403
Cite the original work for its findings. Save a collection to share your selection of sources.