10.6 Micron Parametric Frequency Converter
Abstract
This program represents an effort to demonstrate nonlinear mixing induced in a molecular gas by the application of a dc electric field. In particular, the molecule NH2D is considered as a three-level system interacting simultaneously with applied infrared and microwave radiation. A resonant nonlinear interaction occurs resulting in the generation of a third frequency. This process is allowed because of the removal of inversion degeneracy in the gas by the applied field. A new, completely enclosed, ridged waveguide Stark cell was developed. Single sideband parametric conversion at the difference frequency between the incident CO2 laser radiation and the 4 GHz microwave radiation was accomplished with the modified cell, as predicted. This represents the first observation of resonantly-enhanced Stark-induced two-photon mixing in a gas. The parametric signal was further examined as a function of the Stark voltage, NH2D pressure, the microwave frequency and power. The results generally confirm predictions.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 30, 1975
- Accession Number
- ADA017863
Entities
People
- A. E. Popa
- C. K. Asawa
- R. L. Abrams
Organizations
- HRL Laboratories