Publisher's Synopsis
The discovery of laser technology a few short decades ago has revolutionized both science and industry, paving the way for a growing number of practical applications in all aspects of daily life. This developing interest in expanding the potential of laser physics has resulted in an important new focus on light–matter interaction and given rise to the field of nonlinear optics.
Laser–Molecule Interaction presents the first cohesive treatment of both the fundamentals of laser science and the study of nonlinear optics. The authors, Jean René Lalanne, André Ducasse, and Stanislaw Kielich, are pioneers in the field who have contributed greatly to the study of the interaction of lasers with matter and its practical applications in the world.
An important new approach to the study of laser physics and molecular nonlinear optics, Laser–Molecule Interaction provides easy access to complex concepts in both an analytical and uniquely practical way. Because mastery of laser–matter interaction requires knowledge in three fields of physics, the authors begin with a broad review of quantum mechanics, tensor calculus, and statistical physics, followed by an in–depth treatment of the operation and properties of the laser. This combined knowledge is then applied to the study of laser–molecule interaction and its implications for the future of nonlinear optics.
Throughout the text, chapters are logically organized to provide a quick, complete reference on all aspects of laser–molecule interaction and on related linear and non–linear processes. Important concepts are reinforced by 35 original problems with solutions, which allow readers to test their understanding of the subject matter and optimize their progress.
Designed for scientists, engineers, and advanced students in physics, chemical physics, and laser research, Laser–Molecule Interaction serves as an excellent self–teaching book, classroom text, or reference source.
A unique and comprehensive introduction to laser physics and nonlinear optics.
Lasers have revolutionized both science and industry, with a growing number of important applications in such diverse areas as medicine, engineering, and telecommunications. Laser–Molecule Interaction fills the growing need for a text that provides a basic foundation in laser physics as it relates to the science of nonlinear optics.
To maximize its value for both practicing professionals and students of laser technology, the authors have included coverage ranging from a basic introduction to quantum mechanics and laser physics, to a step–by–step treatment of such concepts as optical oscillators and the spatial and temporal properties of the light beams they generate. In addition, the text has been designed to provide all the basic information needed to understand more specialized works on the subject of lasers and nonlinear optics.
PART I: Description of Microscopic Systems and of the Optical Properties of Matter
Provides a basic understanding of the mathematical and physical concepts and procedures necessary for a study of laser waves and their properties in terms of their application to microscopic systems.
PART II: The Laser Wave and Its Properties
An in–depth examination of the laser wave in terms of its spatial properties and varieties of operation, designed to provide the reader with an understanding of the fundamentals of optical sources.
PART III: Fundamentals of the Laser Molecule Interaction
A basic treatment of laser–molecule interaction. Concepts covered include stationary resonant laser–molecule interaction and n–th order susceptibility.
