Optomechanics as a Probe for New Physics: From Dark Matter to Spontaneous Wave Function Collapse
Author
Pandurangi, UtkalIssue Date
2022Advisor
Wilson, Dalziel J.
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The University of Arizona.Rights
Copyright © is held by the author. Digital access to this material is made possible by the University Libraries, University of Arizona. Further transmission, reproduction, presentation (such as public display or performance) of protected items is prohibited except with permission of the author.Abstract
Optomechanical systems can be used to probe weak forces arising from fundamental physical phenomena. Here, we analyze experimental efforts to search for ultralight dark matter and test spontaneous wave function collapse models, using ultra-low-loss micromechanical resonators based on silicon nitride membranes. We predict that constraints can be drawn in room temperature, table-top experiments that are competitive with the contemporary bounds set by large-scale experiments such as the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory. In the future, we envision setting more stringent bounds by operating experiments in a cryostat.Type
textElectronic Thesis
Degree Name
M.S.Degree Level
mastersDegree Program
Graduate CollegeOptical Sciences