M. Wilkinson et al 2006 Europhys. Lett. 75 709 doi:10.1209/epl/i2006-10182-9
M. Wilkinson1, B. Mehlig2 and D. Cohen3
Show affiliationsWe discuss the response of a quantum system to a time-dependent perturbation with spectrum Φ(ω). This is characterised by a rate constant D describing the diffusion of occupation probability between levels. We calculate the transition rates by first-order perturbation theory, so that multiplying Φ(ω) by a constant λ changes the diffusion constant to λD. However, we discuss circumstances where this linearity does not extend to the function space of intensities, so that if intensities Φi(ω) yield diffusion constants Di, then the intensity ∑iΦi(ω) does not result in a diffusion constant ∑iDi. This "semilinear" response can occur in the absorption of radiation by small metal particles.
73.23.-b Electronic transport in mesoscopic systems
78.67.-n Optical properties of low-dimensional, mesoscopic, and nanoscale materials and structures
Surfaces, interfaces and thin films
Issue 5 (September 2006)
Received 25 April 2006, accepted for publication 17 July 2006, in final form 17 July 2006
Published 4 August 2006
M. Wilkinson et al 2006 Europhys. Lett. 75 709
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