Abstract

The classical theory of nonlinear optics is well established, owing to the seminal work of Bloembergen and others. In this theory, nonlinear coefficients are used to express dielectric properties in a unified way. A quantum-mechanical theory of this type is obviously desirable, allowing the calculation of quantum effects, without requiring a detailed electronic and molecular model of the dielectric. In current research that encompasses such effects as squeezing and photon antibunching, a coherent quantum theory is essential. This should include nonlinearities, inhomogeneity, and dispersion to be relevant to physical dielectric media.

© 1990 Optical Society of America