Optical Sound Generation and Amplification.
Abstract
This research has concentrated on sound propagation through a gas with a nonequilibrium distribution of internal states and the generation of sound following excitation of a fluid by a laser. When a sound wave propagates through a gas which has an overpopulation of vibrationally excited states, the wave can increase in amplitude while propagating. In simple terms, this represents a reversal of the absorption typically associated with vibrational relaxation. Amplification of a propagating wave has been theoretically predicted and experimentally observed for a gas undergoing chemical reaction and following an electrical discharge through a non-reacting mixture. Optoacoustic measurements have been completed in gaseous CO 2 and SF 6 and preliminary results are reported for several liquids. Following laser excitation of SF 6 at low pressure, the gas actually cooled. A theoretical model for this behavior consistent with known energy transfer mechanisms has been developed and shown to be consistent with experiment measurements.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 27, 1987
- Accession Number
- ADA183407
Entities
People
- F. Douglas Shields
- Henry E. Bass
Organizations
- University of Mississippi