Dispersion Engineering and Nonlinear Light Generation in Waveguides

This lecture explores dispersion engineering and nonlinear light generation in waveguides, focusing on the manipulation of light in dispersion engineered silicon nitride waveguides. The instructor discusses the critical role of light sources in photonic systems, the interaction between waves and matter in linear and nonlinear mediums, achievable nonlinearities in waveguides, and the curse and blessing of dispersion. The lecture covers the fundamentals of nonlinear optics, the engineering of dispersion for dispersive waves, and the quest for broad supercontinuum generation. It also delves into the efficiency and reach of nonlinear photonics, the use of silicon nitride for integrated optics, and the potential applications of mid-IR sources for absorption spectroscopy.