Achieving colossal Kerr nonlinearity via multiphoton atomic coherence in a five-level Λ − Ξ system

We propose to utilize a five-level Λ − Ξ system to achieve large self-Kerr nonlinearity under multiphoton resonance conditions. Using a density matrix formulation along with an iterative perturbation technique, analytic expressions of linear and nonlinear susceptibilities are derived for stationary as well as for moving atoms. Variation of first- and third-order susceptibilities with respect to frequency and intensity of switching field is then discussed. The dressed-state picture is employed to explain the amplitude and position of each peak in linear and nonlinear absorption profiles. It is found that under slow light conditions, large controllable Kerr nonlinearity with reduced linear and nonlinear absorption is achieved by properly adjusting the strength and detunings of strong electromagnetic (e.m.) fields. Our numerical results also reveal that the Kerr nonlinear index of our considered system is greater than that of existing three-level Λ and four-level N systems. Finally, it is substantiated that self-Kerr nonlinearity is proliferated by taking the Doppler effect into account. (paper)