electro-optics (original) (raw)

Author: the photonics expert (RP)

Definition: the science and technology around the electro-optic effect; alternatively: optoelectronics or even the whole area of photonics

Alternative term: electrooptics

Categories: article belongs to category optoelectronics optoelectronics, article belongs to category physical foundations physical foundations

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DOI: 10.61835/ykr Cite the article: BibTex BibLaTex plain text HTML Link to this page! LinkedIn

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The term electro-optics is used with substantially different meanings, which are explained in the following sections.

Devices Based on the Electro-optic Effect

Electro-optics in a narrow sense is the field of science and technology around the electro-optic effect, i.e., the phenomenon that the refractive index of a material can be modified with an electric field. Mostly, one uses the linear electro-optic effect (Pockels effect), and less often the Kerr effect (quadratic electro-optic effect). The most important kind of electro-optic devices is the electro-optic modulator, containing a Pockels cell as its core element. Liquid crystal modulators are also electro-optic devices, although using a fundamentally different operation principle.

Optoelectronics

A broader understanding of the term electro-optics also includes other devices where optical propagation depends on electric fields — for example, electroabsorption modulators. Next, one may include devices where light causes electrical effects. Electro-optics is then essentially the same as optoelectronics. That can be considered as the technology of electronic devices that interact with light, or essentially the technology where both optics and electronics are involved. This field includes many more devices, such as photodetectors, laser diodes and photonic integrated circuits.

Photonics

Sometimes, the term is understood to be even much broader, meaning essentially the same as photonics.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different meanings of the term 'electro-optics'?

The term has several meanings. In a narrow sense, it refers to the science and technology around the electro-optic effect. More broadly, it can be synonymous with optoelectronics, and in its widest sense, it is sometimes used as a synonym for photonics.

What is the electro-optic effect?

The electro-optic effect is a phenomenon where the refractive index of a material is modified by an applied electric field. It includes the linear Pockels effect and the quadratic Kerr effect.

In a broad interpretation, electro-optics is considered the same as optoelectronics. This field covers electronic devices that interact with light, including those where electricity affects light and where light creates electrical effects, like in photodetectors.

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