Principles of Lasers and Optics [Paperback]

An advanced 2005 textbook on lasers and optics of laser light in guided-wave and bulk components.This book describes both the fundamental principles of the laser and the propagation of laser radiation in bulk and guided wave components. All solid state, gas, and semiconductor lasers are analysed in a uniform manner as macroscopic devices with susceptibility originating from quantum mechanical interactions. Using this analysis the coherent nature of laser radiation can be understood. Further analyses of the unique properties of coherent laser light in optical components, both as natural light and as microwaves, are presented together and derived from fundamental principles.This book describes both the fundamental principles of the laser and the propagation of laser radiation in bulk and guided wave components. All solid state, gas, and semiconductor lasers are analysed in a uniform manner as macroscopic devices with susceptibility originating from quantum mechanical interactions. Using this analysis the coherent nature of laser radiation can be understood. Further analyses of the unique properties of coherent laser light in optical components, both as natural light and as microwaves, are presented together and derived from fundamental principles.This book describes the fundamental principles of the laser and the propagation of laser radiation in bulk and guided wave components. All solid state, gas, and semiconductor lasers are analyzed as macroscopic devices with susceptibility originating from quantum mechanical interactions. Additional analysis of the unique properties of coherent laser light in optical components is derived from fundamental principles.Preface; 1. Scalar wave equations and diffraction of laser radiation; 2. Gaussian modes in optical laser cavities and Gaussian beam optics; 3. Guided wave modes and their propagation; 4. Guided wave interactions and photonic devices; 5. Macroscopic properties of materials from stimulated emission and absorption; 6.ls