Photonic molecules and spectral engineering

摘要: This chapter reviews the fundamental optical properties and applications of pho-tonic molecules (PMs) - photonic structures formed by electromagnetic coupling two or more microcavities (photonic atoms). Controllable interaction between light matter in atoms can be further modified en-hanced manipulation their mutual coupling. Mechanical tunability PMs not only adds new functionalities to microcavity-based components but also paves way for use as testbeds exploration novel physical regimes atomic physics quantum optics. Theoretical studies carried on over a decade yielded PM designs that make possible lowering thresholds semiconductor microlasers, producing directional emission, achieving optically-induced transparency, enhancing sensitivity bio-, stress- rotation-sensors. Recent advances material science nano-fabrication techniques realization optimally-tuned cavity electrodynamic experiments, classical information processing, sensing.