SPECTROSCOPY AND DYNAMICS OF ENERGY-TRANSFER PROCESSES IN LASER-TYPE SOLIDS

In this paper we investigate the fundamental and general features of t he energy transfer processes that take place in laser-type crystals. W e start by looking at the basic problem of energy transfer in solids a nd setting the proper framework for its study. We then review the data accumulated during our experimental studies throughout the years, neg lecting the details that deserve to go unnoticed, and summarizing the most relevant findings. We finally try to give reasonable answers to t he questions that emerge from the experimental data and to produce a s et of conclusions that may shed additional light on current results an d point to directions of profitable future research.