Applications · Physics
Chaos in optics & lasers
Optical feedback systems and lasers are natural homes for nonlinearity. Ikeda's 1979 ring-cavity equation predicted optical chaos that was later observed experimentally; commercial fast random-number generators now use chaotic laser dynamics.
Ikeda ring cavity
A nonlinear medium in a ring cavity with delayed feedback produces a discrete-time chaotic map whose attractor is the Ikeda attractor (see /maps/ikeda).
Lorenz-Haken laser
Two-level laser equations reduce to a system equivalent to the Lorenz equations under specific conditions. Predicted and observed chaotic intensity output in far-infrared lasers.
Random bit generation
Chaotic semiconductor lasers with external feedback produce broadband intensity fluctuations at GHz rates; sampled and digitised, they yield certified random bits used in cryptographic applications.
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Quick quiz
Test yourself on optics
8 multiple-choice questions. Pick an answer for each, then submit to see explanations.
Q1.Ikeda's optical model concerns:
Q2.Lorenz-Haken equations model:
Q3.Optical bistability + chaos was first predicted by:
Q4.Commercial fast random bit generators use:
Q5.External-cavity semiconductor lasers exhibit:
Q6.Spatio-temporal chaos in lasers is studied in:
Q7.Fibre-loop oscillators show Ikeda-style chaos when:
Q8.Bonifacio-Lugiato modelled which optical chaos system?