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Definition: the part of optics dealing with ultrafast phenomena
Ultrafast optics is the part of optics dealing with ultrafast phenomena, i.e. phenomena which occur on a time scale of picoseconds or less. Typically, ultrafast optics experiments involve ultrashort pulses as generated with mode-locked lasers (→ ultrafast laser physics).
As ultrafast phenomena are too fast to be directly monitored with electronics, optical techniques, such as pump–probe measurements, are required. With such techniques, phenomena occurring on time scales of picoseconds or femtoseconds can be monitored. Examples of such phenomena are femtosecond dynamics of electrons (particularly in solids, e.g. in semiconductor devices such as SESAMs), light-induced phase changes (e.g. melting or vaporization of metals), chemical reactions, and processes in plasmas.
Currently, ultrafast optics is being extended into the sub-femtosecond region, where attosecond pulses (or pulse trains) are obtained, e.g. via high harmonic generation with intense ultrashort pulses.
See also: ultrashort pulses, ultrafast laser physics, ultrafast lasers, picosecond lasers, femtosecond lasers, pump–probe measurements
Since October 2008, the Encyclopedia of Laser Physics and Technology is also available in the form of a two-volume book. Maybe you would enjoy reading it also in that form! The print version has a carefully designed layout and can be considered a must-have for any institute library, laser research group, or laser company.
You may order the print version via Wiley-VCH.
