Magnetooptic resonances in the output spectrum of a wideband laser with a strongly absorbing medium and use of these resonances to determine high optical densities

An explanation has been found for the resonances which form in absorption dips in the output power of a wideband laser with an amplitude-anisotropic resonator containing a strongly absorbing atomic medium in a magnetic field. These resonances are caused by rotation of the polarization plane of the light in the medium. It is suggested that these resonances be used to measure high optical densities of media. This method has been used to experimentally determine the optical density of potassium vapor at the frequencies of the resonance doublet at various temperatures.