On the generalized Maxwell-Bloch equations

Abstract

A new Hamiltonian structure of the Maxwell-Bloch equations is described. In this setting the Maxwell-Bloch equations appear as a member of a family of generalized Maxwell-Bloch systems. The family is parameterized by compact semi-simple Lie groups, the original Maxwell-Bloch system being the member corresponding to SU(2). The Hamiltonian structure is then used in the construction of a new family of symmetries and the associated conserved quantities of the Maxwell-Bloch equations.