arXiv · 1511.01404
Transfer Matrix Formulation of Scattering Theory in Two and Three Dimensions
Abstract
In one dimension one can dissect a scattering potential $ v(x) $ into pieces $ v_i(x) $ and use the notion of the transfer matrix to determine the scattering content of $ v(x) $ from that of $ v_i(x) $. This observation has numerous practical applications in different areas of physics. The problem of finding an analogous procedure in dimensions larger than one has been an important open problem for decades. We give a complete solution for this problem and discuss some of its applications. In particular we derive an exact expression for the scattering amplitude of the delta-function potential in two and three dimensions and a potential describing a slab laser with a surface line defect. We show that the presence of the defect makes the slab begin lasing for arbitrarily small gain coefficients.
Explore related subjects
Keep this discovery
Explore connections, maps & timelines
Farhang Loran, Ali Mostafazadeh. 2016-04-15. Transfer Matrix Formulation of Scattering Theory in Two and Three Dimensions. https://doi.org/10.1103/physreva.93.042707
Cite the original work for its findings. Save a collection to share your selection of sources.