Optical Kerr Effect Spectroscopy of Simple Liquids

In this paper, we review the state of the field of optical Kerr effect (OKE) spectroscopy of simple liquids, with a focus on results from our laboratory. We discuss the history and the theoretical underpinnings of this technique. We consider contemporary issues in the interpretation of OKE spectra, including the origin of the intermediate response and the factors affecting the shape of the reduced spectral density. We highlight some applications of the OKE spectroscopy of simple liquids, including the study of liquid mixtures and the behavior of liquids in nanoconfinement. We also discuss future prospects for OKE spectroscopy and related techniques.