Numerical investigation of stimulated scattering in an unstable resonator

A one-dimensional time-dependent model of the operation of a CO₂ laser with an unstable low-magnification resonator is adopted. This model allows self-consistently for the discharge, gasdynamic, and optical processes and this makes it possible to investigate stimulated scattering in a resonator. The development of optical inhomogeneities in the lasing process gives rise to oscillations in time and increases the divergence. It is shown that the self-interaction due to modulation of the energy deposited in discharge is weak.