Numerical simulation of Brownian particles in optical force fields

Abstract

Optical forces can affect the motion of a Brownian particle. For example, optical tweezers use optical forces to trap a particle at a desirable position. Using more complex force fields it is possible to generate more complex configurations. For example, by using two optical traps placed next to each other, it is possible to obtain a bistable potential where a particle can jump between the two potentials with a characteristic time scale. In this proceeding, we discuss a simple finite difference algorithm that can be used to simulate the motion of a Brownian particle in a one-dimensional field of optical forces.