Electron Recoil via Sample Momentum Transfer in Optical-Mode Excitation
Abstract
The interaction between free electrons and optical modes underlies a variety of quantum and nanoscale light-matter phenomena, yet the associated momentum exchange with the sample largely remained overlooked. Here, we experimentally demonstrate the momentum transfer from free electrons to planar samples during optical mode excitation using momentum-resolved electron energy-loss spectroscopy. The momentum transfer to the sample modifies the apparent dispersion relation which is significant when the planar sample is tilted. Under specific conditions, the sample receives momentum opposite to the electron beam direction.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Advanced Electron Microscopy Techniques and Applications
Laser-Matter Interactions and Applications
Quantum and electron transport phenomena
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Physical Review Letters
- Publisher
- American Physical Society (APS)
- Volume
- 136
- Issue
- 22
- Pages
- 226901–226901
- Publication date
- 28 April 2026
- Language
- EN