Correlation times of mode amplitudes in a multimode cw dye-laser system have been measured using intracavity absorption spectroscopy. The dependence of the mode-correlation times on the spectral power density in the laser cavity has been investigated in detail. At low spectral power densities, surprising discontinuities are observed and interpreted as dynamical instabilities in the laser system. At high spectral power densities, the mode-correlation time approaches a constant value. These observations are described by a system of two nested, self-referential feedback loops explaining the behavior of the laser system. The resulting model is discussed within the concepts of generalized multistability and presumably chaotic behavior.

• Received 26 August 1985

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevA.33.1052