Abstract

Superradiance, as first proposed by Dicke^[1] is the coherent spontaneous emission of an ensemble of atoms or molecules. The emitting atoms or molecules are coupled together by their common radiation field and so decay cooperatively. Thus, the intensity emitted by N atoms or molecules is proportional to N² instead of N. The superradiant pulse duration is inversely proportional to N as well as the delay versus the excitation pulse. This fundamental process offers the possibility to produce short and intense pulses.

© 1992 IQEC