What is the group refractive index for a monochromatic wave in a laser cavity?

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SUMMARY

The group refractive index for a monochromatic wave in a laser cavity at its resonance frequency has been determined to be zero. This conclusion is derived from the equation \( n_g = n + \omega \frac{dn}{d\omega} \), where \( n \) is the effective refractive index, \( \omega \) is the angular frequency, and \( L \) is the length of the laser cavity. The calculations confirm that the group index, calculated using the relationship \( \frac{2\omega n L}{c} = 2m\pi \), results in a value of zero, indicating that the wave does not experience a change in group velocity within the cavity.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of laser cavity physics
  • Familiarity with angular frequency and effective refractive index
  • Knowledge of the relationship between group velocity and refractive index
  • Basic proficiency in calculus for differentiation
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  • Research the physical implications of a zero group refractive index in laser cavities
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jsea-7
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Homework Statement

.[/B]
I am attempting to determine the group refractive index of a laser cavity at it's resonance frequency.

Homework Equations

.[/B]
\begin{align*}
\frac{2\omega n L}{c} &= 2m\pi
\end{align*}

\begin{align*}
n_g &= n + \omega \frac{dn}{d\omega}
\end{align*}

3. The attempt at the solution.
I have considered a uniform plane wave propagating within the cavity satisfying the following relation
\begin{align*}
\frac{2\omega n L}{c} &= 2m\pi
\end{align*}
where ω is the angular frequency, n is the effective refractive index and L is the length of the laser cavity. I have derived the group refractive index as follows
\begin{align*}
n_g &= n + \omega \frac{dn}{d\omega} \\
&= \frac{c m \pi}{\omega L} - \frac{c m \pi}{ \omega L}\\
&= 0
\end{align*}

If this is correct, I don't understand what this is physically entailing. Any insight would be much appreciated! Thank you.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
You are calculating the group index of refraction for a monochromatic wave, which is of course zero.
 

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