The semiclassical theory for gas lasers is extended from one dimension into
three. Self-consistency equations of a rectangular waveguide resonator and
the component equations of motion for the population matrix are derived. L
aser parameters related to the waveguide structure and active medium are an
alyzed by solving the equations, For homogeneously broadened lasers, theore
tical investigation shows that single-mode operation depends on the wavegui
de dimensions, the most probable speed of the active medium, and the decay
constants or the saturation parameter. Under some conditions, the oscillati
ng modes can be determined by the frequency interval and the relative excit
ation.