Interaction between high-intensity arbitrarily polarized radiation and molecules under collisional relaxation conditions

Rate equations for the density matrix are used to describe classically the orientational states of the angular momenta of levels and are solved for arbitrary intensities and polarizations. Allowances are made for collisions which alter the velocity, orientation, and magnitude of the angular momentum, and also the quantum number of a molecular vibrational state. Expressions are derived for the polarization of the medium in the case of homogeneously and inhomogeneously broadened lines. An analysis is made of the polarization dynamics of high-intensity radiation (deformation and rotation of the polarization ellipse) during its propagation in amplifying (absorbing) media.