Localization and the effective mass of a vortex

Abstract

In the problem of a vortex escaping from a metastable potential, we derive the localization criterion of a vortex at finite dissipation and temperature by analysing both the crossover temperature formula and the escape rate formula. In the absence of a pinning potential in the stable direction, this criterion shows that a vortex will be localized in a metastable potential when the Magnus force is strong enough. Using the concept of this localization criterion, the effective mass of a vortex can be defined and interpreted. Moreover, the role of pinning and dissipation in the process of vortex escape can also be discussed. © IOP Publishing Ltd.