Power Broadening: Explained & Resources

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SUMMARY

Power broadening refers to the phenomenon where the linewidth of a transition in an atom increases with the intensity of the laser used, even if the laser's linewidth remains constant. This effect occurs when the laser intensity approaches the saturation intensity of the atomic transition. Key references for understanding this concept include "Atomic Physics" by C. J. Foot (OUP, 2005) and "Laser Physics" by P. W. Milonni and J. H. Eberly (Wiley, 2010).

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of atomic transitions and linewidths
  • Familiarity with laser physics concepts
  • Knowledge of saturation intensity in laser applications
  • Basic principles of quantum mechanics
NEXT STEPS
  • Read "Atomic Physics" by C. J. Foot for foundational concepts
  • Explore "Laser Physics" by P. W. Milonni and J. H. Eberly for advanced insights
  • Research the relationship between laser intensity and atomic saturation
  • Investigate experimental methods to measure power broadening effects
USEFUL FOR

Students and researchers in atomic physics, laser technology professionals, and anyone interested in the effects of laser intensity on atomic transitions.

Malamala
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Hello! I have seen mentioned in several papers the concept of power broadening, which (if I understand it right) means that the linewidth of a transition (say, in an atom) get wider with increasing the power of the laser used (even if the linewidth of the laser is kept constant). I am not totally sure I understand the physics behind it. Can someone explain it to me or point me towards some accessible readings on this topics (preferably not actual papers, maybe a book or something easier as a first reading). Thank you!
 
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Power broadening appears when the laser intensity becomes close to the saturation intensity of the transition.

A couple of good references:
C. J. Foot, Atomic Physics (OUP, 2005)
P. W. Milonni and J. H. Eberly, Laser Physics (Wiley, 2010)
 

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