Optical vortices are a type of structured light beam characterized by a helical phase front and a phase singularity at the center, where the intensity is zero. These beams carry orbital angular momentum, making them useful in applications such as optical trapping, quantum information, and microscopy.

Optical Vortices

Structured light beam

Helical Phase Front

Phase Singularity

Intensity is zero

Orbital angular momentum is a fundamental property of a particle in a central force field, representing the rotational motion of the particle about a point or axis. It is quantized in quantum mechanics, meaning it can only take on discrete values, which are determined by the azimuthal quantum number.

Orbital Angular Momentum

Optical trapping, also known as optical tweezers, is a technique that uses a highly focused laser beam to manipulate microscopic particles, such as cells or molecules, by exerting small forces on them. This method allows for precise control and measurement of biological and physical processes at the micro and nanoscale, enabling advancements in fields like molecular biology and materials science.

Optical Trapping

Quantum information explores the encoding, processing, and transmission of information using the principles of quantum mechanics, offering revolutionary approaches to computation and communication. It leverages phenomena like superposition and entanglement to perform operations beyond the capabilities of classical systems.

Quantum Information

Microscopy is the technical field of using microscopes to view objects and areas of objects that cannot be seen with the naked eye, enabling the study of cells, microorganisms, and nanostructures. It encompasses various techniques and technologies, including optical, electron, and scanning probe microscopy, each with unique applications and resolution capabilities.

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