Dynamics of Localized Structures in Vectorial Waves

Abstract

Dynamical properties of topological defects in a two dimensional complex vector field are considered. These objects naturally arise in the study of polarized transverse light waves. Dynamics is modeled by a vector complex Ginzburg-Landau equation with parameter values appropriate for linearly polarized laser emission. Creation and annihilation processes, and self-organization of defects in lattice structures, are described. We find "glassy" configurations dominated by vectorial defects and a melting process associated with topological-charge unbinding.