Abstract
The effects of possibly truncated Gaussian‐beam variations in probe and saturator‐wave intensities are studied analytically and numerically for saturation spectroscopy of homogeneously and inhomogeneously broadened systems. The measured saturation intensity is shown to be about 2.5 times greater for Gaussian beams than for uniform saturation. Systems characterized by the short dipole lifetime limit (T2T1) are treated, revealing sizeable modifications to the depths of coherent pulsation dips and Bennet holes. The equal lifetime case (T2=T1) is studied as well, showing substantial influence on the dynamic Stark effect.