Linear optics plays a crucial role in determining the performance and characteristics of nonlinear optical systems. Focusing, material dispersion, and birefringence are only a few examples of linear properties that strongly influence nonlinear behavior. This chapter introduces linear properties important to nonlinear optics as well as the framework of derivations common to both linear optics and nonlinear optics. We first address the distinctions between linear and nonlinear systems.
In linear algebra, a function, f, is said to be linear if it satisfies the relationship: f(ax1 + bx2) = af(x1) + bf(x2), where a and b are constants and x1 and x2 are independent inputs to the function. Linearity implies ...
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