From higher-order Kerr nonlinearities to quantitative modeling of 3rd and 5th harmonic generation in argon

TL;DR

This paper confirms the negative higher-order Kerr effect indices in gases by comparing experimental harmonic yields with analytical and numerical models, clarifying their impact on laser pulse propagation.

Contribution

It provides the first comprehensive validation of negative HOKE indices through combined experimental and modeling approaches.

Findings

Confirmed negative HOKE indices in gases

Validated models against experimental harmonic yields

Clarified HOKE impact on laser pulse dynamics

Abstract

The recent measurement of negative higher-order Kerr effect (HOKE) terms in gases has given rise to a controversial debate, fed by its impact on short laser pulse propagation. By comparing the experimentally measured yield of the third and fifth harmonics, with both an analytical and a full comprehensive numerical propagation model, we confirm the absolute and relative values of the reported HOKE indices.