Nonlinear resonance between a soliton and Josephson plasma waves: experiment and theory

Resonant interaction of a soliton (Josephson fluxon) with its self-generate d Josephson plasma waves is studied experimentally, numerically, and analyt ically. An externally applied magnetic field H forms a cos-like potential r elief for the soliton in the annular junction. Soliton motion under the inf luence of the bias current leads to an emission of plasma waves, which give s rise to a resonance at a certain soliton velocity. This resonance on the current-voltage characteristics shows a clear backbending accompanied by a negative differential resistance. Our analysis quantitatively explains the observed effect. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.