Scattering of laser radiation on molecules and in solids (Review)

A review is given of the scattering of coherent optical radiation in gaseous, liquid, and solid media. The spontaneous and stimulated scattering effects are considered. The direct methods for the measurement of the energy relaxation time and of the phase of the vibrations of the scattering particles are discussed. A review is also given of indirect methods based on the measurement of the frequencies, widths, and intensities of the scattering lines and of the corresponding quantities in the stimulated scattering. Practical aspects of the scattering investigations are considered, including the development of new tunable lasers.