Field-equation approximations and the dynamics of high-gain lasers

Semiclassical models for laser-dynamics studies typically incorporate a derivative approximation that reduces the second-order wave equation for the electric field to a first-order equation. It is shown here that this approximation and further frequency approximations are not necessary and may lead to significant errors for some high-gain laser systems. A more exact analysis also reveals a partial decoupling of the electric and magnetic fields that occurs with fast transient phenomena. These ideas are illustrated in terms of well-known dynamical effects.