Jul 17, 2003

Probing Anderson localization of light via decay rate statistics

We have studied the distribution of resonance widths P(Γ) in one-, two-, and three-dimensional multiple light scattering systems. P(Γ) should follow a universal power law P(Γ)∼Γ-1 in the localized regime as confirmed by extensive numerical calculations. This behavior can be interpreted as an unambiguous signature of exponential Anderson localization of light in open systems.