Modification of the linear and nonlinear polarization dynamics in semiconductors owing to the Kerr magneto-optic effect

The contribution to polarization dynamics from a combination of linear bire fringence, anisotropic nonlinear refraction, and a longitudinal magneto-opt ic effect is discussed. A Hamiltonian formalism is developed using Stokes p arameters. It is found that by periodic reversal of the magnetic field, ave nues are opened up to exploit Faraday rotation, for example, as an optical isolator, and polarization switching in an integrated optical environment. A practical implementation is discussed that uses semiconductors and a shap ed-surface conductor. (C) 2000 Optical Society of America.