Forward-scattering ring structure and the spectra dependence on laser frequency.

Abstract

We present analytical predictions based on a semiclassical theory concerning a single-mode cw laser interaction with longitudinally Zeeman tuned J=1--J=0 atomic systems. In the theoretical model, the laser frequency detuning from the inhomogeneously broadened absorber line center is considered. Equation for the interaction signal are derived for all rotations of a polarizating analyzer transmisson axis with respect to an original laser beam linear polarization. Results are presented for the forward-scattering case when the analyzer transmission axis is orthogonal to the beam polarization. Calculated results on bright and dark ring-shaped light structures are compared with experimental ones originating from a Gaussian beam interaction with a neon 1${\mathit{s}}_{4}$(J=1, g=1.464)--2${\mathit{p}}_{3}$(J=0) transition. Calculated results on forward-scattering spectra are presented, i.e., the forward-scattering light intensity as a function of the longitudinal magnetic tuning when the laser frequency is fixed to selected detunings from the absorber line center. Spectra are presented both for the case when the inhomogeneously broadened line originates from a single absorbing isotope and for the case when it originates from overlapping contributions of two isotopes. The results show that laser frequency detunings of tens of megahertz from the absorber line center(s) show up in the forward-scattering spectra. The conclusion is that reliable data on atomic parameters of a nonlinearly absorbing sample can be extracted from experimental spectra only when the sample is monoisotopic and when the laser frequency detuning from the absorber line center is known.