Collapse on the line - how synthetic dimensions influence nonlinear effects

Area of Science:

• Nonlinear Optics
• Wave Propagation
• Fiber Optics

Background:

• Power-induced wave collapse generates extreme optical intensities, driving nonlinear processes.
• Self-focusing dominates beam propagation above a threshold in positive nonlinear media.
• Wave collapse typically requires two transverse dimensions for cubic nonlinearities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate wave collapse in a one-dimensional (1D) system.
• To explore the potential of synthetic dimensions in optical phenomena.
• To achieve wave collapse at low power levels in fiber optics.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing the concept of synthetic dimensions.
• Creating a 1D system with coupled fiber loops.
• Mixing short- and long-range interactions to mimic a 2D lattice.

Main Results:

• Wave collapse was achieved in a genuine 1D system.
• The effect was observed at milliwatt (mW) power levels.
• The system mimicked a two-dimensional mesh lattice through interaction mixing.

Conclusions:

• Wave collapse can be realized in 1D fiber systems.
• Synthetic dimensions offer a novel approach to optical phenomena.
• Low-power wave collapse is achievable in engineered fiber optics.