Size dependence of nonlinear Mie scattering in microdroplets illuminated by ultrashort pulses

Abstract

We present results of experiments to determine the spectral and angular dependence of nonlinear scattering by water microdroplets of radii ranging from 1 to 32 μm illuminated by ultrashort laser pulses. The main process observed is third-harmonic generation (THG). Moreover, in contrast with linear Mie scattering, the angular pattern of the THG is remarkably stable over the size range 8-32 μm. © Optical Society of America.