On the relation between a zero-point-field-induced inertial effect and theEinstein-de Broglie formula

it has been proposed that the scattering of electromagnetic zero-point radi ation by accelerating objects results in a reaction force that may account, at least in part, For inertia [1-3]. This arises because of asymmetries in the electromagnetic zero-point field (ZPF) or electromagnetic quantum vacu um as perceived from an accelerating reference frame. In such a frame. the Poynting Vector and momentum flux of the ZPF become non-zero. If one assume s that scattering of the ZPF radiation takes place at the level of quarks a nd electrons constituting matter, then it is possible for both Newton's equ ation of motion, f = ma, and its relativistic covariant generalization. F = dP/d tau, to be obtained as a consequence of the non-zero ZPF momentum flu x. We now conjecture that this scattering must take place at the Compton fr equency of a particle, and that this interpretation of mass leads directly to the de Broglie relation characterizing the wave nature of that particle in motion. lambda(B) = h/p. This suggests a perspective on a connection bet ween electrodynamics and the quantum wave nature of matter. Attempts to ext end this perspective to other aspects of the vacuum are left for future con sideration. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.