Nonlinear properties of the laser as an amplifier

Summary The paper presents the results of a theoretical analysis of an optical traveling-wave amplifier, to whose input are applied monochromatic pulses of frequency equal to the transition frequency. At distances zp(c/2) |2N₂–N₁|/ /(N₁–N₂) where p>1, and for <2₀aN₁ all input pulses assume the form of a stationary pulse (see Eq. (33)). The stationary signal intensity, duration and total energy are substantially dependent on the nonresonant loss in the medium, the relaxation time T₂ and the initial inversion population difference N₁. For loss values >2₀aN₁ the input pulses are attenuated.In the amplifier model considered we have assumed the laser medium to have a uniformly broadened line. This enables us to apply the results of the investigation to a ruby laser which satisfies this condition (by excluding low temperatures).The neglect of pumping and the lifetime T₁ is permissible for values of not too close to 2₀aN₁.Izvestiya VUZ. Radiofizika, Vol. 8, No. 5, pp. 899–908, 1965