Abstract

The derivation of the mean field limit equations for a unidirectional homogeneously broadened ring laser is based on the density matrix derivation of the induced atomic polarization. This approach utilizes phenomenological longitudinal and transverse relaxation rates γ₁₁ and γ_⊥, which are assumed to be independent of the values of the density matrix elements. This restriction may in some cases be unrealistic, especially in gaseous systems. It is well known that the collision cross-sections for atomic species such as Na are state dependent. These alterations are in fact responsible for effects such as laser induced diffusion^[1],[2].

© 1985 Optical Society of America