Raman selection rules in uniaxial media: The nonpolar modes of MnGa 2Se 4

Abstract

It is known that optically anisotropic media can change the polarization of light propagating inside them. As regards Raman spectroscopy, this affects the light intensity measured in different geometrical configurations and results in an apparent unfulfillment of selection rules. We present an experimental and theoretical study of such effects in the defect chalcopyrite semiconductor MnGa 2Se 4. Optical anisotropy is taken into account by including in the calculation of Raman intensities the phase difference appearing between ordinary and extraordinary waves as they propagate, in uniaxial media, with different velocities. Birefringence can be obtained from Raman measurements provided that the distance run by the light is known. ©2005 The American Physical Society.