Nonlinear Optics: Basic Concepts

Intended for readers with a background in classical electromagnetic theory, this book develops the basic principles that underlie nonlinear optical phenomena in matter. It begins with a discussion of linear wave propagation in dispersive media, moves into weak nonlinearities which can be discussed in a pertuberative manner, then it examines strong nonlinear effects (solitons, chaos). The emphasis is on the macroscopic description on nonlinear phenomena, within a semiclassical framework. Two new chapters cover surface optics and magneto-optic phenomena. The book is aimed at the student or researcher who is not a specialist in optics but needs an introduction to the principal concepts.