In optics, optical bistability is an attribute of certain optical devices where two resonant transmissions states are possible and stable, dependent on the input. Optical devices with a feedback mechanism, e.g. a laser, provide two methods of achieving bistability.

  • Absorptive bistability utilizes an absorber to block light inversely dependent on the intensity of the source light. The first bistable state resides at a given intensity where no absorber is used. The second state resides at the point where the light intensity overcomes the absorber's ability to block light.
  • Refractive bistability utilizes an optical mechanism that changes its refractive index inversely dependent on the intensity of the source light. The first bistable state resides at a given intensity where no optical mechanism is used. The second state resides at the point where a certain light intensity causes the light to resonate to the corresponding refractive index.

This effect is caused by two factors

  • Nonlinear atom-field interaction
  • Feedback effect of mirror

Important cases that might be regarded are:

  • Atomic detuning
  • Cooperating factor
  • Cavity mistuning

Applications of this phenomenon include its use in optical transmitters, memory elements and pulse shapers.

Optical bistability was first observed within vapor of sodium during 1974.[1]

Intrinsic bistability

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When the feedback mechanism is provided by an internal procedure (not by an external entity like the mirror within the Interferometers), the latter will be known as intrinsic optical bistability.[2] This process can be seen in nonlinear media containing the nanoparticles through which the effect of surface plasmon resonance can potentially occur.[3]

References

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  1. ^ Gibbs, Hyatt (1985). "Introduction to Optical Bistability". Optical Bistability: Controlling Light With Light. Quantum electronics--principles and applications. Orlando, FL: Academic Press Inc. p. 1. ISBN 978-0122819407. Retrieved June 16, 2021.
  2. ^ Goldstone, J. A., and E. Garmire. "Intrinsic optical bistability in nonlinear media". Physical review letters 53.9 (1984): 910. https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.53.910
  3. ^ Sharif, Morteza A., et al. "Difference Frequency Generation-based ultralow threshold Optical Bistability in graphene at visible frequencies, an experimental realization". Journal of Molecular Liquids 284 (2019): 92–101. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.molliq.2019.03.167