Reflection, refraction, and absorption of light by material media are, in
general, accompanied by a transfer of optical energy and momentum to the media.
Consequently, the eigen-modes of mechanical vibration (phonons) created in the
process must distribute the acquired energy and momentum throughout the
material medium. However, unlike photons, phonons do not carry momentum. What
happens to the material medium in its interactions with light, therefore,
requires careful consideration if the conservation laws are to be upheld. The
present paper addresses some of the mechanisms by which the electromagnetic
momentum of light is carried away by mechanical vibrations.Comment: 34 pages, 19 figures, 89 equations, 11 reference
