Wading through the void: Exploring quantum friction and nonequilibrium fluctuations

When two or more objects move relative to one another in vacuum, they experience a drag force, which, at zero temperature, usually goes under the name of quantum friction. This contactless non-conservative interaction is mediated by the fluctuations of the material-modified quantum electrodynamic vacuum and, hence, is purely quantum in nature. Numerous investigations have revealed the richness of the mechanisms at work, thereby stimulating novel theoretical and experimental approaches and identifying challenges and opportunities. In this Perspective, we provide an overview of the physics surrounding quantum friction and a perspective on recent developments. (c) 2022 Author(s). All article content, except where otherwise noted, is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license(http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).

Automated summary

This article discusses the drag force, known as quantum friction, experienced by two or more objects moving relative to each other in a vacuum. This contactless non-conservative interaction is mediated by fluctuations in the material-modified quantum electrodynamic vacuum and is purely quantum in nature. Extensive research has been conducted, stimulating the development of both theoretical and experimental approaches.