Continuous-wave second-harmonic generation in sodium vapor

Abstract
A high-resolution study of magnetic-field-induced second-harmonic generation in sodium vapor has been carried out with use of a single-frequency continuous-wave dye laser. Resonant enhancement was obtained by tuning the laser to the frequency of the 3S→4D two-photon transition of the sodium atom. Experimental and theoretical results are presented showing the variation of the power and polarization properties of the second-harmonic radiation as the laser is tuned across the two-photon resonance, and as the transverse magnetic field is varied.