Raman-resonant four-wave mixing and energy transfer

Abstract

A common assumption that Raman-resonant four-wave mixing does not transfer energy between the light and the Raman medium is shown to be incorrect. The derivation of the correct energy-transfer picture is compared with those for stimulated Raman scattering and for nonresonant mixing. The physical mechanism for Raman-gain suppression due to Stokes/anti-Stokes coupling under phase-matched conditions is clarified by this understanding of the energy transfer. An experimental demonstration of the nature of the energy transfer is proposed.