Casimir Effect: Vacuum Fluctuations

Two parallel conducting plates constrain vacuum electromagnetic modes. Fewer modes fit between the plates than outside, creating a net inward pressure: F/A = −π²ℏc/(240 d⁴). Drag the slider to change plate separation d.

100 nm
10 μm²
d = 100 nm  |  F/A = Pa  |  F(total) = pN