This book is the result of two decades of research work which started with an accidental observation. One of my students, Dipl. phys. Volkmar Lenz, - ticed that the speckle pattern of laser light scattered by a cuvette containing diluted milk performed a strange motion every time he came near the cuvette with his thumb. After thinkingabout this e?ect we came to the conclusion that this motion can only be caused by scatteringparticles with di?erent velocities, as in the case of the di?raction pattern of an optical grating: A linear motion of the grating does not change the pattern whereas a rotation of the grating does. The observed speckle motion could then be explained qualitatively as produced by the inhomogeneous velocity of the convection within the cuvette which was produced by the heat of the thumb. The theoretical treatment of this e?ect revealed that the velocity gradient of the light scattering medium is responsible for the speckle motion. The idea to use this e?ect for developingmeasurement techniques for velocity gradients arose almost immediately. For that purpose we had to develop not only experimental set-ups to measure the pattern velocity but also the theory which describes the connection between this velocity and the velocity gradient. The result of this work together with the description of a method developed by another group forms the contents of this book. I am indebted to the students who worked in my laboratory and developed the measurement techniques. These were, in temporal order, Dr.

This book will be of assistance to anyone attempting to extract the maximum information, from any set of data, using curve fitting methods. In addition, the book shows how advanced fitting techniques such as robust fitting with splines and non-linear regression are applied to practical problems. The book also includes derivation of the statistical errors that are present in this type of analysis. It is written in a manner so that the impatient reader can rapidly get into fitting spectra.

This book gives a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in both theory and practical implementation of plasmonic probes. Encompassing multiple disciplines, the field of plasmonics provides a versatile and flexible platform for nanoscale sensing and imaging. Despite being a relatively young field, plasmonic probes have come a long way, with applications in chemical, biological, civil, and architectural fields as well as enabling many analytical schemes such as immunoassay, biomarkers, environmental indexing, and water quality sensing, to name but a few. The objective of the book is to present in-depth analysis of the theory and applications of novel probes based on plasmonics, with a broad selection of specially-invited chapters on the development, fabrication, functionalization, and implementation of plasmonic probes as well as their integration with current technologies and future outlook. This book is designed to cater to the needs of novice, seasoned researchers and practitioners in academia and industry, as well as medical and environmental fields.

Growth of Crystals, Volume 21 presents a survey, with detailed analysis, of the scientific and technological approaches, and results obtained, by leading Russian crystal growth specialists from the late 1990's to date.

The volume contains 16 reviewed chapters on various aspects of crystal and crystalline film growth from various phases (vapour, solution, liquid and solid). Both fundamental aspects, e.g. growth kinetics and mechanisms, and applied aspects, e.g. preparation of technically important materials in single-crystalline forms, are covered.

A large portion of the volume is devoted to film growth, including film growth from eutectic melt, from amorphous solid state, kinetics of lateral epitaxy and film growth on specially structured substrates. An important chapter in this section covers heteroepitaxy of non-isovalent A3B5 semiconductor compounds, which have important applications in the field of photonics.

The volume also includes a detailed analysis of the structural aspects of a broad range of laser crystals, information that is invaluable for successfully growing perfect, laser-effective, single crystals.

The thesis presents a systematic study of the Mpemba effect in a colloidal system with a micron-sized particle diffusing in a water bath. While the Mpemba effect, where a system's thermal relaxation time is a non-monotonic function of the initial temperature, has been observed in water since Aristotle's era, the underlying mechanism of the effect is still unknown. Recent studies indicate that the effect is not limited to water and has been studied both experimentally and numerically in a wide variety of systems. By carefully designing a double-well potential using feedback-based optical tweezers, the author demonstrates that an initially hot system can sometimes cool faster than an initially warm system. The author also presents the first observation in any system of another counterintuitive effect-the inverse Mpemba effect-where the colder of the two samples reaches the thermal equilibrium at a hot temperature first. The results for both the observations agree with theoretical predictions based on the Fokker-Planck equation. The experiments reveal that, for carefully chosen conditions, a strong version of both of the effects are observed where a system can relax to the bath temperature exponentially faster than under typical conditions.

Optically Polarized Atoms is addressed at upper-level undergraduate and graduate students involved in research in atomic, molecular, and optical Physics. It will also be useful to researchers practicing in this field. It gives an intuitive, yet sufficiently detailed and rigorous introduction to light-atom interactions with a particular emphasis on the symmetry aspects of the interaction, especially those associated with the angular momentum of atoms and light. The book will enable readers to carry out practical calculations on their own, and is richly illustrated with examples drawn from current research topics, such as resonant nonlinear magneto-optical effects. The book comes with a software package for a variety of atomic-physics calculations and further interactive examples that is freely downloadable from the book's web page, as well as additional materials (such as power-point presentations) available to instructors who adopt the text for their courses.

This book presents a survey of modern theoretical and experimental techniques in studies of light scattering phenomena and radiative transfer processes in random media. It presents reviews on light scattering by sea water and bubbles, and includes a separate chapter addressing studies of the remote sensing of crystalline clouds with a focus on the shape of particles-a parameter rarely studied by passive remote sensing techniques. In particular, it offers a comprehensive analysis of polarized radiative transfer in optically active (e.g., chiral) light scattering media and explores advances in spectro-polarimetry of particulate media. Lastly it discusses new developments in light scattering for combustion monitoring.

This book illustrates the history of Atomic Physics and shows how its most recent advances allow the possibility of performing precise measurements and achieving an accurate control on the atomic state. Written in an introductory style, this book is addressed to advanced undergraduate and graduate students, as well as to more experienced researchers who need to remain up-to-date with the most recent advances. The book focuses on experimental investigations, illustrating milestone experiments and key experimental techniques, and discusses the results and the challenges of contemporary research. Emphasis is put on the investigations of precision physics: from the determination of fundamental constants of Nature to tests of General Relativity and Quantum Electrodynamics; from the realization of ultra-stable atomic clocks to the precise simulation of condensed matter theories with ultracold gases. The book discusses these topics while tracing the evolution of experimental Atomic Physics from traditional laser spectroscopy to the revolution introduced by laser cooling, which allows the manipulation of atoms at a billionth of a degree above absolute zero and reveals new frontiers of precision in atomic spectroscopy.

The interferometer is a versatile instrument which has played a central role in many developments in physics. Its uses include measurements of fine and hyperfine structure in atomic spectra, precision measurements of the velocity of light, studies of isotope shift and nuclear structure. It has contributed to recent work in remote sensing, optical bistability, plasma physics, atomic physics, light scattering spectroscopy and astrophysics.

The Workshop on Physics and Application of Non-crystalline Semiconductors in Optoelectronics was held from 15 to 17 October 1996 in Chisinau. republic of Moldova and was devoted to the problems of non-crystalline semiconducting materials. The reports covered two mjlin topics: theoretical basis of physics of non -crystalline materials and experimental results. In the framework of these major topics there were treated many subjects. concerning the physics of non-crystalline semiconductors and their specific application: -optical properties of non-crystalline semiconductors; -doping of glassy semiconductors and photoinduced effects in chalcogenide glasses and their application for practical purposes; -methods for investigation of the structure in non-crystalline semiconductors -new glassy materials for IR trasmittance and optoelectronics. Reports and communications were presented on various aspects of the theory. new physical principles. studies of the atomic structure. search and development of optoelectronics devices. Special attention was paid to the actual subject of photoinduced transformations and its applications. Experimental investigations covered a rather wide spectrum of materials and physical phenomena. As a novel item it is worth to mention the study of nonlinear optical effects in amorphous semiconducting films. The third order optical non linearities. fast photoinduced optical absorption and refraction. acusto-optic effects recently discovered in non-crystalline semiconductors could potentially be utilised for optical signal processing. The important problems of photoinduced structural transformations and related phenomena. which are very attractive and actual both from the scientific and practical points of view. received much attention in discussions at the conference."

This book showcases the state of the art in the field of electronics, as presented by researchers and engineers at the 53rd Annual Meeting of the Italian Electronics Society (SIE), held in Rende (CS), Italy, on September 5-7, 2022. It covers a broad range of aspects, including: integrated circuits and systems, micro- and nano-electronic devices, microwave electronics, sensors and microsystems, optoelectronics and photonics, power electronics, electronic systems and applications.

The object of this school, held at Cargese, Corsica (France) from August 12th to 24th 1991, was the presentation of the field of guided wave nonlinear optics in a comprehensive, coherent, and heuristic fashion. It seems appropriate that this school began with an historical introduction by Professor Nicolaas Bloembergen of Harvard, the acknowledged "father" of nonlinear optics, in general, and concluded with a round table discussion headed by Dr. Eric Spitz, the Scientific Director of a multinational electronics company interested in developing industrial applications of guided wave nonlinear optics. The lectures covered both the theoretical framework of the field and applications to basic scientific research, optical communications and technical instrumentation. Specific topics developed included materials for guided wave nonlinear optics, nonlinear interactions using integrated optical guides, nonlinear surface waves, solitons, fiber nonlinear optics, ultra-fast coupler switching as well as the related topic of fiber and integrated optical lasers and amplifiers. Lectures have also been devoted to squeezed states, chaos and strange attractors. The subjects covered by the school underlines one of the major ways in which this field has evolved over the past thirty some odd years. The path from the original experiments with materials requiring mega-watt power lasers to the recent developments in guided wave configurations using milliwatt power diode lasers is marked by the conjunction of ever improving fundamental scientific comprehension and continuing technological developments.

This textbook is based on a course given by the first-named author to third and fourth year undergraduate students from physics, engineering physics and electrical engineering. The purpose is to introduce and explain some of the fundamental principles underlying laser beam control in optoelectronics, especially those in relation to optical anisotropy which is at the heart of many optical devices. The book attempts to give the reader the background knowledge needed to work in a laser, optoelectronic or photonic environment, and to manage and handle laser beam equipment with ease.In this edition, recent research results on modern technologies and instruments relevant to laser optoelectronics have been added to each chapter. New material include: chirped pulse amplification for petawatt lasers; optical anisotropy; physical explanations for group velocity dispersion, group delay dispersion, and third order dispersion; an introduction of different types of laser systems; and both optical isotropy and anisotropy in different types of harmonic generation.Theories based upon mode-locking and chirped pulse amplifications have become increasingly more important. It is thus necessary that students learn all these in a course devoted to laser optoelectronics. As such, Chapter 12 is now devoted to mode-locking and carrier-envelope phase locking. A new chapter, Chapter 13, which focuses on chirped pulse amplification has also been added.

This book is devoted to dispersion theory in linear and nonlinear optics. Dispersion relations and methods of analysis in optical spectroscopy are derived with the aid of complex analysis. The book introduces the mathematical basis and derivations of various dispersion relations that are used in optical spectroscopy. In addition, it presents the dispersion theory of the nonlinear optical processes which are essential in modern optical spectroscopy. The book includes new methods such as the maximum entropy model for wavelength-dependent spectra analysis.

Disorder is everywhere, inherently present in nature, and is commonly believed to be a synonymous with disturbance. As a consequence, the methodical and customary study of the dynamics of the electromagnetic field, both in the linear and nonlinear optical regimes, leans to rule out it from the treatment. On the other hand, nonlinearity enriches the physical disciplines and brings them closer to reality with respect to the linear approximation. Nonlinearity allows to stimulate a wide and rich ensemble of optical responses that beautifies the role of matter in the active processes with electromagnetic fields. Independently of each other, both of these mechanisms foster localization of light. What happens when light enlightens their synergistic interaction? When pushed together, light, disorder and nonlinearity make new and intriguing phenomena emerge. This text provides a comprehensive investigation of the role of disorder in the nonlinear optical propagation both in transparent media and lasers. Eventually, disorder promotes and enhances complex nonlinear dynamics opening new perspectives in applied research driven by the processes of localization of the electromagnetic field. The first experimental study of laser emission in granular media unveils how randomness magnifies and largely affect laser-matter interactions. Viola Folli in her research work touches and deepens the leading milestones of the new science named Complex Photonics.

This book highlights the proceedings of the International Conference on Atomic, Molecular, Optical and Nano-Physics with Applications (CAMNP 2019), organized by the Department of Applied Physics, Delhi Technological University, New Delhi, India. It presents experimental and theoretical studies of atoms, ions, molecules and nanostructures both at the fundamental level and on the application side using advanced technology. It highlights how modern tools of high-field and ultra-fast physics are no longer merely used to observe nature but can be used to reshape and redirect atoms, molecules, particles or radiation. It brings together leading researchers and professionals on the field to present and discuss the latest finding in the following areas, but not limited to: Atomic and Molecular Structure, Collision Processes, Data Production and Applications Spectroscopy of Solar and Stellar Plasma Intense Field, Short Pulse Laser and Atto-Second Physics Laser Technology, Quantum Optics and applications Bose Einstein condensation Nanomaterials and Nanoscience Nanobiotechnolgy and Nanophotonics Nano and Micro-Electronics Computational Condensed Matter Physics

This technical book considers the application side of LDA techniques. Starting from the basic theories that are crucial for each LDA user, the main subject of the book is focused on diverse application methods. In details, it deals with universal methodical techniques that have been mostly developed in the last 15 years. The book thus gives for the first time an application reference for LDA users in improving the optical conditions and enhancing the measurement accuracies. It also provides the guidelines for simplifying the measurements and correcting measurement errors as well as for clarifying the application limits and extending the application areas of LDA techniques. Beside the treatments of some traditional optical and flow mechanical features influencing the measurement accuracies, the book shows a broad spectrum of LDA application methods in the manner of measuring the flow turbulence, resolving the secondary flow structures, and quantifying the optical aberrations at measurements of internal flows etc.. Thus, it also supports the further developments of both the hard- and software of LDA instrumentations.

Written for an interdisciplinary readership of physicists, engineers, and chemists, this book is a practical guide to the fascinating world of solitons. These waves of large amplitude propagate over long distances without dispersing and therefore show one of the most striking aspects of nonlinearity. The author addresses students, practitioners, and researchers, approaching the subject from the standpoint of applications in optics, hydrodynamics, and electrical and chemical engineering. The book also encourages readers to perform their own experiments. Since the printing of the second edition of this book, there has been a large growth in the literature on nonlinear waves and so has the wide applicability of the subject to the physical, chemical and biological sciences. This third edition has been thoroughly revised. Some of the topics are brought up to date with pertinent references. Furthermore, the book now includes a completely new chapter on solitary waves in diffuse systems.

This thesis provides unique information on the Kerr-lens mode-locking (KLM) technique applied to a thin-disk laser. It describes in detail cavity geometry, the qualitative approach to KLM, and self-starting behavior in the regime of both negative and positive dispersion. Comprehensive comparative analysis of KLM and semiconductor saturable absorber techniques is also carried out. Recent successful experiments on carrier-envelope phase stabilization, spectral broadening and compression of output of this oscillator underline the importance of this new, emerging technology.

This book delivers a comprehensive and up-to-date treatment of practical applications of metamaterials, structured media, and conventional porous materials. With increasing levels of urbanization, a growing demand for motorized transport, and inefficient urban planning, environmental noise exposure is rapidly becoming a pressing societal and health concern. Phononic and sonic crystals, acoustic metamaterials, and metasurfaces can revolutionize noise and vibration control and, in many cases, replace traditional porous materials for these applications. In this collection of contributed chapters, a group of international researchers reviews the essentials of acoustic wave propagation in metamaterials and porous absorbers with viscothermal losses, as well as the most recent advances in the design of acoustic metamaterial absorbers. The book features a detailed theoretical introduction describing commonly used modelling techniques such as plane wave expansion, multiple scattering theory, and the transfer matrix method. The following chapters give a detailed consideration of acoustic wave propagation in viscothermal fluids and porous media, and the extension of this theory to non-local models for fluid saturated metamaterials, along with a description of the relevant numerical methods. Finally, the book reviews a range of practical industrial applications, making it especially attractive as a white book targeted at the building, automotive, and aeronautic industries.

The book gives a detailed description of optical wireless communication (OWC), including optical laser communication, visible light communication, ultraviolet communication, underwater optical communication and future communication technologies. To achieve an integration between theory and practice, the book avoids tedious mathematical deductions and includes theoretical materials as exercises. Most of the exercises are originated from published journal articles. These exercises will aid the readers in understanding the basic concept and methods and evaluating their knowledge acquisition in the field of OWC. The book is structured into Ten chapters that covers main aspects of OWC: - Optical wireless communication system - Coherent optical communication - Modulation, demodulation, and coding - Atmospheric channel, channel estimation, and channel equalization - White LED communication - Underwater laser communication - Ultraviolet communication - Acquisition, aiming, and tracking technology - Partially coherent optical transmission - Optical communication in the future The book is a suitable reference for undergraduate or postgraduate students majored in communication engineering, electronic information engineering or computer science, as well as the engineers and technicians in related fields.

This book explicates the optical controls of antiferromagnetic spins by intense terahertz (THz) electromagnetic waves. The book comprises two key components: (1) the experimental demonstration of the enhancement of a THz magnetic field using a split-ring resonator (SRR) and (2) the control of the direction of magnetization by using the enhanced THz magnetic field to break the symmetry of optically-induced phase transition. These make up the first step leading to future spintronics devices. In the beginning of the book, the author reviews the basics of the ultrafast laser and nonlinear optical techniques as well as the previously achieved experiments to control spin dynamics by THz magnetic fields. In this context, a new experimental protocol is described, in which electron spins in a ferromagnetic material are redirected at the unprecedented level in cooperation with the enhanced THz magnetic field. Subsequently, the author demonstrates that the THz magnetic field is significantly amplified as a nearfield around the SRR structured metamaterial, which is implemented by measuring spin precession in a solid. At the end, the author presents the key experiment in which the amplified THz magnetic nearfield is applied to the weak ferromagnet ErFeO3 along with the femtosecond near-infrared pulse, demonstrating the successful control of symmetry breaking of the spin system due to coherent control of the optically-induced spin reorientation phase transition pathways. The comprehensive introductory review in this book allows readers to overview state-of-the-art terahertz spectroscopic techniques. In addition, the skillful description of the experiments is highly informative for readers in ultrafast magnonics, ultrafast optics, terahertz technology and plasmonic science.

This book describes a unique combination of quantum chemical methods for calculating the basic physical properties of luminescent materials, or phosphors. These solid inorganic materials containing an optically active dopant are key players in several major fields of societal interest, including energy-efficient lighting, solar cells, and medical imaging. The novel ab initio methods described in this book are especially designed to target the crowded and complex electronic excited states of lanthanide activators in inorganic solids. The book is well suited to both new and experienced researchers alike and appeals to a broad range of theoretical and experimental backgrounds. The material presented enables an adept understanding of elaborate calculations, which, in tandem with experiments, give essential insight into difficult luminescence problems and quandaries, thus fully preparing the reader for an educated search for new functional luminescent materials

Recent advances in semiconductor technology have made it possible to fabricate microcavity structures in which both photon fields and electron-hole pairs (or excitons) are confined in a small volume comparable to their wavelength. The radiative properties of the electron-hole pairs and excitons are modified owing to the drastic change in the structure of the electromagnetic-field modes. This book is the first to give a comprehensive account of the theory of semiconductor cavity quantum electrodynamics for such systems in the weak-coupling and strong-coupling regimes. The important concepts are presented, together with relevant, recent experimental results.