Enhanced Kerr Nonlinearity via Atomic Coherence in a Three-Level Atomic System

Hai Wang, David Goorskey, and Min Xiao
Phys. Rev. Lett. 87, 073601 – Published 26 July 2001
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Abstract

We measure the Kerr-nonlinear index of refraction of a three-level Λ-type atomic system inside an optical ring cavity. The Kerr nonlinearity is modified and greatly enhanced near atomic resonant conditions for both probe and coupling beams. The Kerr nonlinear coefficient n2 changes sign when the coupling beam frequency detuning switches sign, which can lead to interesting applications in optical devices such as all-optical switches.

  • Received 23 March 2001

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.87.073601

©2001 American Physical Society

Authors & Affiliations

Hai Wang*, David Goorskey, and Min Xiao

  • Department of Physics, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, Arkansas 72701

  • *On leave from the Institute of Opto-Electronics, Shanxi University, Shanxi, People's Republic of China.
  • Email address: mxiao@mail.uark.edu

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Vol. 87, Iss. 7 — 13 August 2001

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